In a concerted effort to curtail the rising toll of road traffic accidents and foster safer transit across the nation, Bangladesh Police has issued a 12-point safety directive aimed directly at motorists and motorcyclists. Released via the law enforcement agency’s official social media channels, the advisory outlines fundamental traffic protocols, urging road users to prioritize personal safety, exhibit civic restraint, and adhere strictly to established traffic laws.
Road safety remains a critical public health and infrastructure challenge in Bangladesh. High-density traffic, aggressive driving behaviors, unsafe overtaking on national highways, and widespread non-compliance with elementary safety regulations contribute to thousands of casualties annually. By re-emphasizing these core operational rules, police authorities aim to instil greater discipline on urban thoroughfares and inter-district highways alike.
Under the new directives, protective gear and passenger limits are heavily emphasized. Both motorcycle riders and their pillion passengers are legally obligated to wear approved protective helmets at all times, with total occupancy strictly capped at two individuals per bike. For four-wheeled motor vehicles, driver and passenger seatbelt compliance is mandated.
To combat driver distraction and traffic noise pollution—a prevalent issue in major metropolitan hubs such as Dhaka and Chattogram—the guidelines explicitly prohibit mobile phone usage while behind the wheel and discourage unnecessary hooting. Drivers must observe designated speed limits, obey traffic signals, and maintain a safe following distance from preceding vehicles.
Navigating around heavy transport poses severe hazards on mixed-traffic corridors. The police advisory specifically instructs drivers to remain cognizant of blind spots surrounding buses and lorries, utilize direction indicators well in advance of lane changes or turns, and avoid risky overtaking maneuvers on highways. Furthermore, motorists are advised to reduce speeds during adverse weather conditions, such as dense fog and torrential monsoon rains, while keeping patience in heavy traffic to prevent road rage.
Strict prohibitions have been reiterated against driving under the influence of narcotics or alcohol, driving while fatigued, and travelling against the flow of traffic on one-way lanes or dual carriageways. Finally, motorists must carry valid driving licences and updated vehicle registration documentation at all times. Police authorities reminded the public that adhering to these twelve directives is essential not merely to avoid legal sanctions, but to protect human lives and ensure every commuter reaches their destination safely.
