Assam has recorded the highest number of deaths due to pothole-related accidents on National Highways in the Northeast between 2020 and 2024. 

• Out of 476 deaths reported across six Northeastern States, Assam alone accounted for 395 fatalities, raising serious concerns about road maintenance and public safety.

Key Data (2020–2024)

• 1,168 accidents in Assam caused by potholes.
• 395 deaths and 1,152 injuries (grievous and minor).
• Highest fatalities recorded in 2022 (117 deaths).
• Other States:
  • Arunachal Pradesh – 65 deaths
  • Nagaland – 7
  • Manipur – 5
  • Mizoram – 3
  • Tripura – 1
  • Meghalaya and Sikkim – No deaths reported

National Highways are managed under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, with projects executed by agencies like the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) under the National Highways Act, 1956. Road safety also forms a core component of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, which strengthens accountability and penalties.

Exam Hook: 

Consider the following statements:

1. National Highways in India are primarily managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
2. The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 aims to improve road safety and accountability.
3. Road maintenance of National Highways is exclusively the responsibility of State Governments.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

One-line wrap:
Assam’s rising pothole-linked fatalities underline the urgent need for stronger highway maintenance, accountability and road safety governance.

SOURCE