Call for Global Action to Prioritise Walking and Cycling
New Delhi, May 12 – On the occasion of the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a powerful call to action urging member states, civil society, the private sector, and communities to adopt people-centred mobility policies. The global health body also emphasised the urgent need for safer road design, safer vehicles, and reduced speed limits to protect vulnerable road users.Celebrated every two years starting from the third Monday of May, this year’s Road Safety Week puts a spotlight on making walking and cycling safe for all.
Walking and Cycling: Pillars of Sustainable Transport
Highlighting the role of active mobility, Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, noted that walking and cycling are core elements of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2020-2030. These modes of transport not only contribute to sustainable cities but also foster healthier lifestyles.Walking and cycling support physical activity and help prevent non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. They also improve mental well-being by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety," Wazed said.
Grim Statistics and Regional Challenges
Every year, road-traffic accidents claim nearly 1.2 million lives globally, leaving up to 50 million more with non-fatal injuries. Wazed underscored the human cost of these tragedies, particularly in the WHO South-East Asia Region.“In 2021 alone, our region accounted for more than 3.3 lakh deaths from road crashes — nearly 28 per cent of the global total,” she said. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and two- and three-wheeler operators, comprised 66 per cent of these fatalities.
Road-traffic injuries have now become the leading cause of death among people aged 5 to 29 years, she added, underlining the need for urgent action.
Creating Safer Urban Spaces
The WHO has been working with major cities like Mumbai and Bangkok under its Partnership for Healthy Cities to implement safer transportation systems. This includes the redesign of pedestrian walkways, assessment of roads and sidewalks, and the development of universally inclusive, accessible infrastructure.While acknowledging the challenges of building safe roads in densely populated urban areas, Wazed stated, “Such efforts are vital for protecting vulnerable populations and promoting environmental sustainability.”
A Holistic Vision for Road Safety
Linking road safety with broader health and climate goals, Wazed noted, “By integrating road safety with physical activity promotion, we address interconnected challenges — from injuries and non-communicable diseases to mental health and climate change.”She concluded with a clear message: “I urge all stakeholders to champion people-centred mobility, safe road infrastructure, safer vehicles, and lower speed limits. It’s time to make our roads truly safe for everyone.”
