These are not just accidents, but deliberate killings that must be stopped now
The recent spate of road accidents in Bangladesh, particularly the tragic incidents in Munshiganj and Pabna that claimed the lives of eight individuals and left 15 others injured, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform in road safety practices.
These incidents, marked by negligence and a blatant disregard for traffic regulations, highlight a systemic failure that demands immediate attention.
Our newspaper on Saturday reported that the first accident, involving a Bepari Paribahan bus that collided with stationary vehicles at the Dhaleshwari Toll Plaza, resulted in the heartbreaking loss of a family, including a mother and her two young daughters.
The second incident in Pabna, where three agricultural workers lost their lives due to a truck crashing into their parked vehicle in heavy fog, further underscores the perilous conditions on our roads.
These tragedies are not isolated; but symptomatic of a broader issue that has persisted for far too long.
Experts have pointed to several contributing factors, including lax enforcement of traffic laws, inadequate vehicle safety measures, and poor visibility during winter months.
The absence of essential vehicle equipment, such as mirror lights and sidelights, exacerbates the risk, particularly in foggy conditions. Moreover, the lack of proper road markings and signage leaves drivers vulnerable to accidents that could easily be avoided.
However, secretary general of Jatri Kolyan rightly emphasises the need for a comprehensive approach to road safety.
It is imperative that the government takes decisive action to enforce existing laws and implement new measures aimed at protecting all road users.
This includes rigorous checks on vehicle safety standards, improved training for drivers, and public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about safe driving practices.
The loss of life on our roads is not merely a statistic; it represents shattered families and grieving communities. Reflecting on these tragedies, we must advocate for a culture of accountability and responsibility among drivers and transport operators.
The government must prioritise road safety as a critical issue, ensuring the necessary infrastructure and regulations are in place to prevent further loss of life.
In memory of those who have perished in these avoidable accidents, let us call for urgent reforms that will safeguard the lives of all who travel on our roads.