Leaders of Bangladesh Auto-Rickshaw Light Transport Workers Federation (BALTWF) have placed a 10-point demand to remove discrimination in the transport sector and ensure road safety. They placed the demands at a discussion meeting at Dhaka Reporters Unity on Tuesday. The demands include handing over of already allocated 5000 CNG-run autorickshaws to drivers in Dhaka city and 4000 in Chattagram city as per the decision of the government in 2007, implementation of the Driver Appointment Act 1980, amendment to 22 sections of the Road Transport Act 2018 and implementation of the government decision to build separate lanes and dividers for light vehicles on highways to prevent road accidents, and eradicating all kinds of corruption, harassment and irregularities at BRTA regarding issuing licenses to drivers. Read: BALTWF urges govt to find out actual reasons for frequent road accidents Ensuring parking facilities for auto-rickshaws and light vehicles at important places in the city and elsewhere for the convenience of drivers and passengers, taking action against illegal toll collection by police and other agencies, introduction of rationing system for drivers and transport workers to provide essential commodities at low cost, and ensuring membership to the Board of Trustees and Road Safety Council and inclusion of representatives of the BALTWF in the district transport committee are among the demands. Read more: BRTA harassing transport workers during driving licence, dope tests: BALTWF With BALTWF president Abul Hossain in the chair, the discussion meeting was addressed by President of Bangladesh Transport Workers Federation Abdur Rahim Bokht Dudu, Joint Secretary General Zubair Zakir, and BALTWF general secretary Golam Faruk.

In anticipation of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, Bangladesh Police on Thursday (April 04, 2024) issued a series of safety guidelines for citizens planning to travel back to their hometowns.  This initiative aims to ensure a safe and smooth journey for thousands of holidaymakers during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The police have strongly discouraged travelers from risking their lives by riding on the roofs of buses, trucks, pickups, and other goods vehicles.  Newly elected Cumilla and Mymensingh city mayors take oath Additionally, pedestrians have been advised to utilise foot overbridges and zebra crossings wherever available and to be cautious of vehicle speeds in areas lacking these facilities. Private car users were specifically warned against joyriding and reckless driving. The police have also cautioned all travelers against accepting food from strangers, a precautionary measure to avoid potential health risks. Bus owners have been urged to employ only skilled and professional drivers and to avoid overloading buses beyond their capacity. Similarly, vehicle fitness is emphasised, with a strict recommendation against operating any vehicle deemed unfit for travel. Regarding waterway travel, the police advised against journeying by launch in inclement weather conditions and implored vessel owners to refrain from exceeding passenger limits on launches, steamers, and speedboats. Vessel operators were reminded to navigate the vessels themselves or ensure that they are piloted by certified drivers. Owners are also encouraged to monitor weather conditions via mobile phones and radio and to verify the functionality of fire pumps and fire extinguishing equipment onboard. For those traveling by train, police reiterated the dangers of roof, buffer, and engine travel and cautioned against the act of throwing stones at trains, which poses a significant safety hazard. Work for people, don’t lose public trust: PM Hasina to public reps In the event of an emergency, people were asked to call 999 or police headquarters control room (01320001299), highway police headquarters (01320182598), railway police headquarters (01320177598), river police headquarters (01320169598), Rapid Action Battalion (01777720199), district superintendent of police and officer-in-charge of police, if needed. By adhering to these guidelines, the Bangladesh Police hope to minimise accidents and ensure that Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated in a joyous and safe manner across the country.

Highlighting growing road traffic deaths globally, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Bangladesh Dr Bardan Jung Rana has said two deaths per hour in Bangladesh, taking away young lives due to road accidents needs urgent attention. WHO has called for all partners to accelerate efforts to ensure people’s rights to move safely, noting that it is time to rethink mobility and put the safety of the people at the core to ensure roads are safe for all who use them. “Road traffic deaths continue to rise, with around 1.3 million deaths per year globally and as many as 50 million injuries,” Dr Bardan mentioned in his recent Op-Ed. Also Read: 487 deaths in 439 road accidents in Feb: Road Safety Foundation Marking the 7th UN Road Safety Week (15-21 May), he said Bangladesh is a densely populated country, and day by day the incidence of road traffic crashes is increasing. The country enacted Road Transport Act 2018, replacing the Motor Vehicle Ordinance of 1983, and updated its National Road Safety Strategic Action Plan in 2020, showing commitment to establish a reliable and sustainable road transportation system. Also Read: Road crashes kill 285, injures 454 during Eid journey: Report The Directorate General of Health Service under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently developed a strategy and action plan to address post-crash response since two-thirds of all road traffic fatalities occur on the way to the hospital and three-fourth do not receive any form of pre-hospital care. “In this matter different donor agencies and organizations are working together to improve the overall road safety situation,” said Dr Bardan. He said ensuring  road safety needs multisectoral coordination, providing  safer vehicles and roads, improving how people behave on the roads, and ensuring access to quality, life-saving emergency care in case of a crash. The law should be further strengthened to meet global standards, and effective enforcement strategies should be adopted, said the WHO Representative. Road safety is a human right that must not be compromised as they reimagine how they move, he said. Also Read: WHO launches global network to detect and prevent infectious disease threat As per the WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety 2018, an estimated 25,000 people lost their lives in 2016 due to road traffic injuries in Bangladesh, making it the leading cause of death for children and young people aged 5-29 years. The UN General Assembly endorsed the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030 with the explicit target to reduce road deaths and injuries by at least half. The Global Plan highlights that a shift towards people-centered roads and road networks that are planned, designed, built, and operated to eliminate risks – would save lives. Such roads consider first and foremost those most at risk of injury, like children, adolescents, people with disabilities, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users. “Making way for walking and cycling can favourably impact health and the environment, allowing people to be physically active and breathe clean air,” said the WHO Representative.          

Vehicular movement on Airport Road remained suspended for one hour on Monday as protestors blocked the road following the death of a university student in a road crash. Azizul Haque, officer-in-charge of Airport Police Station, said the students of Northern University took to the street around 1:05 pm to press home their four point demand, halting vehicular movement on the road. Earlier on Sunday, Nadia, 24, a 4th year student of the Pharmacy department of Northern University, died when a Victor Paribahan bus hit the motorcycle she was on near Jamuna Future Park in the city. The demands of the students are cancellation of the route permit of Victor Paribahan Classic; to provide compensation to the family members of Nadia; provide adequate evidence of arresting the driver and helper of the killer bus, and construction of a safe bus stoppage in Kawla area. Also Read: Northern University  student killed in road crash A long tailback has been created from Airport to Khilkhet area which spread to Mohakhali, Badda, and Gulshan areas, following the road blockade, OC Haque said. On information, police rushed to the spot and assured the students of meeting their demands. Traffic on the road returned to normal around 2pm. Quoting witnesses, police said Nadia, riding on friend Mehedi’s motorcycle, was going to Narda area at noon. When the motorcycle reached near Jamuna Future Park area, a bus of Victor Paribahan hit the motorcycle at around 12:45 pm. Nadia fell on the street and died on the spot, while her friend Mehedi received minor injuries, said OC of Bhatara police station ABM Asaduzzaman.    

Motorcycle riding has been a male-dominated hobby for almost a century, but each year an increasing number of women are starting riding motorbikes on the road. Lack of enough public transport, harassment on shared transport, high transport fare of private transport, etc are encouraging women to ride personal motorbikes. Let’s take a look at some safe riding tips for female motorbikers. 8 Safety Tips for Women Motorcycles Riders Practice First As more women are discovering the thrill of riding and the freedom of the open road, novice female motorcyclists may not know where to start. Many experienced riders advise novices to practice on a secondhand motorcycle before purchasing their own motorbike. Thus, if you tumble from a sharp curve or drop the bike by mistake, you will not damage a brand-new model. Buying the Correct Bike There are several ladies' motorbikes available on the market. However, when purchasing a motorbike, you must ensure that you can safely operate the one you pick. Read More: Ladies Scooter Buyer Guide: How to Choose a Two-Wheeler for Women Make sure the bike can handle your weight. Choose a motorcycle with a seat height and weight that are optimal for your physique. In addition to a comfortable riding posture, your motorbike should keep you near enough to the handlebars.  Don't forget to check the type of bike, engine power, safety features, suspension, weight limit, turning radius, and maintenance requirements before choosing a motorbike. Besides these, consider the durability, and resale value of the vehicle.  Become Acquainted with Your Bicycle Regardless of the bicycle you pick, you must be acquainted with all of its components and operations. Before you can rev your engine, you must identify the start and throttle, as well as understand the clutch and brake mechanisms. Read More: best 100cc motorbikes available in Bangladesh Before hitting the road, familiarize yourself with the weight of your motorbike and practice balance. Adjust your bike's mirrors and seat height. However, you may need tools to modify the mirrors and seat of your motorbike. This technique is explained in the owner's handbook. Get the Right Equipment Obviously, you want gear that is as elegant as your motorbike, but it is also important that your gear protects you. Motorcycle riding attire demands more consideration than automobile attire. Whether you're traveling at fast speeds for miles or making many stops on the route to work, your gear should be able to protect you from the weather. Even though no one intends to fall or have an accident when riding a bicycle, it is essential that your clothing offers the optimum cushioning just in case. Protect the impact zones of your body, including your knees, elbows, hands, and face. Read More: Safety Gears for Motorcycle Riders: Necessity and Types Remember that your legs and feet will be close to very hot components of your motorbike, such as the engine and exhaust pipes, so protect your flesh to prevent serious burns. As a woman, it is essential to choose appropriate clothing for riding a motorcycle. Utilize online forums and social media groups for women riders to choose the right sizes and kinds of riding gear. Establish a Pre-Ride Examination As a novice rider, it can be beneficial to develop a pre-ride inspection to perform prior to each ride. This should include inspecting the following: Tires and wheels, Controls, Lights and electrical, Oil and fluids, Chassis, and Stands. Read More: Motorbike Riding in Winter: How to beat the cold weather? Regularly doing this pre-ride examination will acquaint you with your motorbike, making it easier to notice any potential issues. The owner's handbook for motorcycles may assist you to identify these controls and components, as well as the precise maintenance needs. Exercise in a Secure Setting When initially beginning to bike, it is recommended to practice on a straight, level road. A lengthy driveway or empty parking lot might provide you with the space you need to develop a feel for your motorcycle's throttle in a location devoid of other cars and people. Once you have mastered fundamental navigation, you may begin practicing turns. Again, a wide, unpopulated, flat location is ideal for learning how to make huge turns. As you gain confidence, you may practice tighter spins that involve leaning. Read More: How to Choose a Motorbike Helmet in Bangladesh under TK10000.. At some time, as a motorcycle rider, you’re sure to have a wet ride. Utilize this secure area to practice riding in wet conditions in preparation. Wet roads are more difficult than dry roads, therefore it's essential to train in a controlled setting to get used to the slippery circumstances. You may also take a motorcycle safety course that can teach you the fundamentals of riding a motorbike. It can also help you in the motorcycle license driving exam. Become a Defensive Rider All motorcyclists must possess defensive riding abilities. It is easy to find yourself in a car's blind zone on the road, particularly on fast-moving freeways. You have to keep yourself safe at all times while riding your bike and ride as if people on the road can’t see or hear you. Read More: Top 10 ABS Motorbikes in Bangladesh Constantly monitoring the road for possible dangers, such as potholes, gravel, and roadwork is part of defensive driving. Additionally, you should learn to foresee potential threats. Obviously, you cannot predict the future, but you must always be equipped to defend yourself and your bike. Seek Out Other Women Riders While motorcycle riding may be an amazing individual experience, this pastime also gives a feeling of camaraderie. Consider joining a women's motorcycle club to meet other female riders, get the guidance, and possibly acquire new abilities. Your first time driving on the highway may be less daunting if you are accompanied by a passenger.  The advice of other women riders might also help you avoid biker faux pas, such as wearing motorbike-friendly clothes or ignoring other social indications that only seasoned riders would understand. Read More: The Most Popular Motorbike Models in Bangladesh Conclusion After purchasing a motorbike and becoming familiar with its operation, you become a proud rider of two wheels. From purchasing a bike to hitting the road safe riding should be given the highest importance. So far, we have discussed some essential safety tips for female motorbikers to assure a safe riding experience on road. Riding a motorcycle safely, you can not only solve your regular communication dilemma but also gather precious riding memories on vacations.

Two people have been killed in separate road accidents in the city’s Gulistan area. A  35-year-old man was killed being hit by a bus in front of Awami League (AL) party office in Gulistan Saturday morning. The deceased was identified as Jahangir Matabbar, of Faridpur’s Boalmari upazila. He came to the city to undergo medical test for going abroad. Also read: Woman killed in Chapainababganj road accident Enamul Haque, assistant sub-inspector of Paltan Police Station, said a bus of ‘Manzil Paribahan’ knocked down Jahangir while he was crossing the road. The bus was seized and the body was sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) for an autopsy. However, the driver managed to flee, he added. On Friday night,  an unidentified man, believed to be in his 30s, was killed being hit by a truck in Gulistan. Also read: College student killed in Narayanganj road accident Some street children took him to DMCH around 1 am where doctors declared him dead, said Bachchu Miah, in-charge of DMCH police outpost. He added that the body has been kept in the hospital morgue for autopsy.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a more holistic approach to road safety. He made the remarks at a high-level meeting of the UN General Assembly on improving road safety on Thursday. Guterres said that road fatalities are closely linked to poor infrastructure, unplanned urbanization, lax social protection and health care systems, limited road safety literacy and persistent inequalities both within and between countries. Also read: Perilous roads in Bangladesh; 6,284 killed in 2021: RSF Meanwhile, he pointed out that unsafe roads are a key obstacle to development. "Traffic accidents can push entire families into poverty through either the loss of a breadwinner or the costs associated with lost income and prolonged medical care," he said, noting that developing countries lose between 2 and 5 percent of GDP every year because of them. UN agencies have set goals of cutting road traffic deaths and injuries by half by 2030 and promote sustainable mobility with safety at its core. To achieve the goals need more ambitious and urgent action to reduce the biggest risks such as speeding, and increased financing for sustainable and safe infrastructure and investments in cleaner mobility and greener urban planning, the UN chief said. "And we need to adopt a more holistic approach to road safety," he stated. "This means better integrating road safety in national policies - from education, health, and transport to climate mitigation, land-use planning, and disaster response," he said. The secretary-general called on all member states to accede to UN road safety conventions and implement whole-of-society action plans, taking a strong prevention approach. He also urged all donors to scale up much-needed financial and technical contributions through the UN Road Safety Fund. Also read: Road accidents kill 4, injure 7 in five districts "Together, we can save lives, support development, and steer our world to safer roads ahead, leaving no one behind," he said.

The World Bank on Tuesday  approved $358 million of financing to help Bangladesh improve road safety, reduce fatalities and injuries from road traffic crashes in selected high-risk highways and district roads. In two national highways—N4 (Gazipur-Elenga) and N6 (Natore to Nawabganj)—the project will pilot comprehensive road safety measures, including improved engineering designs, signing and marking, pedestrian facilities, speed enforcement, emergency care. Read:WB approves $120 mln loan to develop climate smart agriculture, water management These measures will help reduce road traffic deaths by more than 30 percent on these two highways. “Road accidents are the leading cause of permanent disability, and the fourth leading cause for children’s death. They disproportionately affect poor families. For Bangladesh, improving road safety is a critical economic and development priority,” said Mercy Tembon, World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan. “This is the first dedicated road safety project in South Asia supported by the World Bank. It will help Bangladesh develop a comprehensive program to improve road safety management and minimize tragic loss of human lives.”  The costs related to traffic crashes can be as high as 5.1 percent of the GDP. Unsafe and under-invested road infrastructure is one of the key factors for crashes. With a sharp increase in the number of vehicles including two-wheelers, safety inspections for the registered vehicles remain inadequate, said a World Bank press release. The project will support development of a long-term national program and a National Road Safety Strategic Action Plan to improve road safety through stronger coordination among ministries and strengthening the institutional framework, it said. The project will also undertake road safety pilots in selected urban areas and district roads. It will help modernize the capacity of the Traffic Police and highway patrol to manage speeding and prevent risky road user behavior through instilling a combination of automated enforcement systems, such as CCTVs, electronic messaging, and physical measures to slow down traffic speed, including patrol vehicles and crash scene clearing equipment. Read: WB approves $300 million to help Bangladesh bolster its urban bodies It will improve post-crash care, which is critical in saving lives. In 2016, about two-thirds of the road crash victims died on the way to a hospital. It will set up an ambulance service via a toll-free number and upgraded emergency care services in selected district hospitals, and Upazila Health Complexes along the two national highway corridors. It will provide training to medical providers on trauma care and help develop standards, protocols, and operational policies for emergency medical care services. It will create crash database and implement integrated traffic management and incident detection system. ICT systems will support the integration of existing information systems and databases of vehicle registration, driver licensing, and payments. The project will undertake campaigns to create road safety awareness and behavioral change. “Investment in Road Safety Programs will be fruitful when they are matched with proper institutional setup, legislative framework, and efficient monitoring systems,” said Dipan Bose, World Bank Senior Transport Specialist and Task Team Leader of the project “With three related ministries, Road Transport and Bridges, Health and Home Affairs joining together, this project is an example of the government’s commitment to stronger road safety management.” The project will establish a training center for Bangladesh Police to strengthen capacity on modern road safety enforcement. It will also develop a comprehensive training program for commercial drivers. The credit is from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), which provides concessional financing, has a 30-year term, including a five-year grace period.

The students, now on a movement seeking safer roads, brought out a symbolic ‘coffin procession’ at Shahbagh in the capital on Sunday, demanding justice for road accident victims. The students brought out the procession around 1pm to press home their nine-point demand, including the issuance of a notification regarding half bus fare for students across the country. Students from different educational institutions in the capital took part in the procession. Read:Students take to streets again with 11-point demand Earlier in the morning, the protesters started a sit-in at Shahbagh with a coffin. Another group of protesters brought out another procession from the Public Library carrying only banners.

Students of different colleges in Dhaka city staged demonstrations in different parts of the city on Thursday protesting the death of Notre Dame College student Naim Hasan and  demanding  road safety. Students of different colleges in Motijheel’s Shapla Chattar area, Farmgate, Uttara Azampur, Asadgate, Mirpur, Gulistan, and Bailey Road took to the streets and put up barricades to protest the death of Naim in a tragic road crash on Wednesday.