A tragic road accident in Debiganj Upazila, Panchagarh, has claimed the life of a senior cyclist. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon on the Bhaulaganj-Tokarvasa road, in front of Bhaulaganj Adarsha Balika High School, leaving the local community in shock.
The deceased, Abdul Malek, aged 70, was a resident of Boyatipara, Bodeshwari village in Boda Upazila’s Barashashi Union. According to the Officer-in-Charge of Debiganj Police Station, K.M. Moniruzzaman Chowdhury, the fatality was confirmed shortly after the accident.
Sequence of Events
Eyewitnesses reported that Abdul Malek was cycling to Bhaulaganj market for his routine errands when the accident occurred. As he reached the front of the high school, a speeding motorcycle approaching from the opposite direction collided with him. The impact threw him onto the road. Passersby quickly rushed him to a local rural doctor in Bhaulaganj market, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Residents highlighted the risks posed by narrow roads and uncontrolled vehicle speeds. “This road is very narrow and lacks measures to regulate traffic speed. Fast-moving motorcycles often place locals in grave danger,” one witness explained. The community has urged authorities to take immediate preventive measures.
Road Accident Statistics in Panchagarh (2025–2026)
| Month | Total Accidents | Fatalities | Injuries |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28 | 3 | 15 |
| February | 22 | 2 | 10 |
| March | 25 | 4 | 12 |
| April | 20 | 1 | 9 |
Expert Concerns
Road safety experts have noted that elderly cyclists, due to slower reflexes and reduced defensive capacity, are particularly vulnerable to high-speed vehicles. They recommend that the local administration implement clear traffic signage, enforce speed limits, and conduct public awareness campaigns at high-risk locations.
Recent trends indicate a rise in road accidents in Panchagarh, prompting both the administration and law enforcement to intensify efforts to educate residents and control vehicle speed. However, experts stress that more robust and systemic measures are essential to prevent repeat tragedies.
This latest incident underscores the urgent need for effective policies at both local and national levels to protect elderly cyclists and pedestrians, serving as a stark reminder that road safety remains a critical public concern in the region.