Road deaths slashed by 62.5% ‘Operation u-Turn’ a lifesaver
   Date :02-Aug-2025

Road deaths slashed
 
 
Staff Reporter :
 
In a major success for road safety in Nagpur, deaths due to road accidents in July 2025 saw a sharp 62.5 per cent decrease compared to the same month in 2024. Similarly, the number of people seriously injured in road accidents dropped by an impressive 85 per cent. These changes follow the launch of ‘Operation u-Turn’ by the Nagpur Police, which began on July 10. A press release issued by the city police claimed that the aim of the operation is to curb dangerous driving habits, such as drunk driving, wrong-side driving, riding without helmets, underage driving, and rash or negligent driving. The campaign included strict traffic enforcement across the city, as well as awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of road safety.
 
In just 21 days since the operation started, the results have been highly encouraging. According to the statistics released by the Traffic Branch of Nagpur Police, fatal accidents in July 2024 were recorded at 39, while in July 2025 they came down to 14. Similarly, total accidents dropped from 32 to 13. The number of male deaths reduced from 8 to 2, while female deaths fell from 9 in 2024 to zero in 2025. Serious injuries also saw a huge decline - from 4 males in 2024 to 2 in 2025, with no serious injuries reported among females this year. The difference in numbers clearly shows that the operation has been effective.
 
The drop in fatal accidents by 25, total accidents by 19, male deaths by 6, and female deaths by 9, reflects a major behavioural change among motorists. DCP Traffic Lohit Matani said that the success not only highlights the power of stricter traffic enforcement but also shows the positive impact of continuous public awareness efforts. Commissioner of Police Dr Ravinder Singal expressed satisfaction over the initial results and stated that saving lives is their top priority. He added that through Operation U-Turn, people are becoming more aware of their responsibilities on the road. Joint CP Navinchandra Reddy also noted that the operation would continue in the coming months, with increased focus on accident-prone zones, and wider involvement of schools, colleges, and residential communities in spreading awareness. 
 
84.5% decrease in serious injuries
 
The number of people who were seriously hurt in accidents also saw a huge decline. In July 2024, 13 people suffered serious injuries. This past July, that number plummeted to only 2. This represents an almost 85% drop.