NEWS – Traffic injuries leading cause of death among children:Joint UNICEF-WHO Collaborating Centre at NIMHANS report on child road safety.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Key Finding: Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death among children (5-19 years) in India.
• Data:
  • Children account for 10% of all road crash fatalities.
  • Nearly 45 children die daily due to road accidents.
• Recommendations:
  • Dedicated budget for child road safety.
  • Child occupant safety rating assessments for new cars.
  • Road safety programs and audits around schools.
  • Strengthened emergency care infrastructure.
  • Mandating road safety audits.
• Call for Action:
  • Behavioral change and awareness campaigns.
  • Use of seatbelts and helmets.
  • Safe-school zones by NHAI.
  • Affordable public transport for children.
• NIMHANS Initiatives:
  • Establishing a Level-1 polytrauma center in North Bengaluru.
  • Pilot study with KIMS, Hubballi, to improve polytrauma care.