Maldives Launches Road Safety Week March to Combat Rising Traffic Accidents

A multi-agency march took place in Hulhumalé Phase I to mark the commencement of Road Safety Week, highlighting an urgent national need to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities. The event saw a coordinated effort from key state institutions, including the Maldives Police Service (MPS), the Health Protection Agency (HPA), Hulhumalé Hospital, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and the Maldives Transport Contracting Company (MTCC). Participants marched through the urban center carrying banners and slogans designed to promote safer driving habits and pedestrian awareness. Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Health, Family and Welfare, Geela Ali, emphasized that a significant number of road accidents stem from inadequate safety measures. Minister Ali called for a synchronized approach across all government sectors to curb the rising trend of road mishaps. Of particular concern is the demographic most affected by these incidents. Minister Ali noted that a disproportionate number of accidents occur among young adults aged 18 to 35. She stressed that targeted prevention efforts for this age group could drastically reduce the incidence of permanent disability and loss of life. To engage the public, the march included the display of visuals depicting the aftermath of road accidents, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of negligence. Road safety remains a critical challenge as the Maldives continues to develop. The country records approximately 2,500 road accidents annually, contributing to a growing burden of death and long-term disability. In response, the government has pledged to implement more rigorous and immediate measures to improve road infrastructure and enforcement before the situation deteriorates further.