Shillong, September 9, 2025 –
Reckless and drunken driving has claimed 474 lives in Meghalaya over the past five years, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police), Bah Prestone Tynsong, informed the Assembly on Tuesday.
The disclosure came in response to a question raised by Nongkrem MLA and Voice of the People Party (VPP) President, Bah Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, during the ongoing Autumn Session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly.
Fatalities Across Districts
According to official data presented in the House:
Reckless driving accounted for 419 deaths across the State.
Highest fatalities were reported from East Khasi Hills (112 deaths), followed by Ri-Bhoi (99 deaths) and West Garo Hills (54 deaths).
The year 2024 recorded the highest toll with 129 deaths.
Drunken driving claimed 55 lives between 2021 and 2025.
The worst-affected districts were East Khasi Hills (19 deaths) and South Garo Hills (8 deaths).
The year 2021 saw the highest number with 23 deaths.
Government’s Response
Deputy Chief Minister Tynsong assured the House that the Government is treating the issue with utmost seriousness. Measures already being implemented include:
Strengthening police vigilance on highways and accident-prone areas.
Awareness campaigns and public education drives on road safety and discipline.
Strict enforcement of laws against reckless and drunken driving.
Tynsong further stressed that such behaviour behind the wheel poses grave risks to society, especially to the younger generation. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to reducing road fatalities through stronger enforcement and preventive measures.
