Oslo, Jan 2 (NationPress) Alarm bells have been sounded by Norway's Transport Minister following a concerning rise in traffic fatalities on the nation's roads in 2025.

Initial statistics revealed by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration indicate that 111 individuals lost their lives on Norwegian roads this year. This marks an increase of 24 compared to the 87 fatalities recorded the previous year.

"The number of lives lost on our roads is far too high, and I am deeply troubled by these trends," stated Jon-Ivar Nygard, Norway's Minister of Transport, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.

Analysis of accidents conducted by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration highlights that the primary causes of deadly crashes include speeding, intoxication, distraction, and reckless behavior.

While the final count for serious injuries is still pending, estimates suggest that the overall number of deaths and serious injuries in road traffic for 2025 exceeds 600.

Among the 111 fatalities, 94 were men and 17 were women, including 10 pedestrians, 11 cyclists, and two e-scooter riders. Additionally, 25 individuals lost their lives while riding motorcycles, light motorcycles, or mopeds.

The summer months experienced the highest mortality rates, with 18 deaths in June and 16 in July.

Since 2001, Norway has been striving for a "zero vision": achieving zero fatalities or serious injuries on its roads. The National Transport Plan for 2025-2036 aims for a maximum of 350 deaths or serious injuries by 2030, with a target of 50 deaths.

In December, the Norwegian government announced preparations for new measures aimed at enhancing safety for electric scooter users, following a marked rise in accidents.

According to the Ministry of Transport, injuries from e-scooter accidents in Oslo have nearly doubled compared to the prior year.

"The number of severe injuries from e-scooters has risen alarmingly in recent years. We are now embarking on specific measures to reduce these incidents," said Minister Nygard.

One proposal under review is the increase of the minimum age for e-scooter riders. The current limit, which was set at 12 years in 2022, has not deterred a high incidence of injuries among children, who are particularly vulnerable due to their inexperience with traffic. "Given the current trend in accidents, it is imperative to consider raising the age limit," Nygard emphasized.

The government is also focusing on eliminating the sale of illegal e-scooters. Although the legal speed limit for e-scooters in Norway is 20 km/h, vendors continue to offer models capable of much higher speeds. The minister cautioned that such e-scooters lack insurance, putting riders at risk of legal repercussions and significant liability claims in the event of a crash.

To safeguard pedestrians, the ministry plans to simplify the process for municipalities to prohibit e-scooter riding on sidewalks. It has requested the Norwegian Public Roads Administration to create specific signage for local authorities to use in restricting sidewalk riding in problematic areas while keeping roadways accessible.

Furthermore, the government is advocating for stricter enforcement of existing regulations. Nygard has asked the Norwegian Public Roads Administration to enhance inspections and collaborate with the police to target speeding, intoxication, and the illegal use of e-scooters.