9 solutions to curb road crashes ahead of Eid

Staff Reporter :

As road crashes continue to claim lives daily, especially during major festivals like Eid, experts are urging urgent and comprehensive measures to improve road safety across Bangladesh.

During the last Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, 132 people were killed and 208 injured in 110 road crashes over just eight days, according to the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). During Eid-ul-Azha last year, 215 people died and 278 were injured in 216 crashes over 12 days.

In response, Dhaka Ahsania Mission’s Health Sector organized a discussion titled “Role of Media in Strengthening Road Safety” in Shyamoli, Dhaka, on Tuesday. At the event, Director Iqbal Masud presented nine key recommendations to prevent road crashes, especially during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha: Set and enforce safe speed limits year-round, including during festivals, with immediate implementation of speed management guidelines, Ensure proper working hours for drivers to allow for adequate rest and reduce fatigue-related accidents, Restrict the movement of all battery-operated vehicles and non-standard transports (e.g., Nachimon, Karimon, Tempu) on major roads and highways during Eid travel, Improve pedestrian infrastructure, ensuring safe crossings and movement, Mandate high-quality helmets for both riders and passengers of motorcycles, and introduce separate lanes for motorcycles on key roads, Remove all unfit and outdated public transport vehicles from operation, Strictly enforce existing laws prohibiting driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, Make the use of seat belts mandatory for all vehicle occupants, including drivers, Establish a National Road Safety Authority to coordinate agencies implementing the Road Safety Act and to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Iqbal Masud noted that while the Road Transport Act of 2018 raised expectations for improved safety, its implementation has fallen short. “We need a dedicated Road Safety Law that protects not only passengers but also drivers, pedestrians, and transport workers,” he said.

With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, experts warn that without immediate action, more lives will be lost unnecessarily on the roads.