Nepal Police data reveals alarming spike in drunk-driving accidents across nation
KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 25
Nepal Police recorded 11 deaths and 375 injuries across 250 alcohol-related road accidents during Kartik 2083, highlighting the persistent danger posed by impaired driving across the nation's seven provinces and Kathmandu Valley.
Lumbini Province emerged as the most affected region, accounting for nearly half of all fatalities with 103 accidents resulting in 7 deaths and 163 injuries. Koshi Province recorded the second-highest incidents with 41 accidents, 1 death and 61 injuries.
The Kathmandu Valley experienced 57 drunk-driving accidents claiming 1 life and injuring 47 people, underscoring risks in the capital region despite urban infrastructure and enforcement mechanisms.
Madhesh Province reported 20 accidents with 1 death and 28 injuries, while Bagmati Province documented 12 accidents resulting in 1 death and 22 injuries. Gandaki recorded 4 accidents with no fatalities but 6 injuries. Karnali Province saw 6 accidents with no deaths but 10 injuries, and Sudurpaschim recorded 7 accidents with no fatalities and 11 injuries.
The data reveals geographic disparities in drunk-driving incidents, with southern and eastern provinces experiencing disproportionately higher numbers of accidents and casualties. The concentration of fatalities in Lumbini Province suggests the need for region-specific interventions and enhanced enforcement in vulnerable areas.
It also exposes the need for stricter compliance with drunk-driving laws and heightened public awareness campaigns. The one-month snapshot demonstrates that alcohol-impaired driving remains a critical public safety challenge, with fatality rates indicating that a significant proportion of accidents result in serious consequences rather than minor injuries.
