Zebra crossings turn deadly: 218 pedestrians killed in just 10 months in Kerala

Kochi: Pedestrian fatalities in road accidents across Kerala have risen to alarming levels, with 218 people losing their lives while attempting to cross roads on Zebra crossings between January and October 31 this year.

According to official data, a total of 851 pedestrians were killed in vehicle accidents during the same period across the state. Up to August 15, Kerala recorded 32,658 road accidents.

The state had reported 43,910 accidents in 2022, which increased to 48,068 in 2023 and further to 48,834 in 2024. The figures for 2025 are expected to climb further by year-end, raising concerns among road safety experts and officials.

Why such accidents occur

• Carelessness and negligence of vehicle drivers
• Overspeeding
• Exceeding speed limits on narrow and congested roads
• Lack of properly marked zebra crossings or faded markings
• Absence of signal systems to assist pedestrians while crossing
• Lack of footpaths in many areas