Ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Elections, the Road Safety Foundation has issued a comprehensive thirteen-point appeal to all political parties, urging them to prioritise the establishment of a safe, accessible, and citizen-friendly public transport system. The foundation released the detailed demands on Tuesday, 27 January, in a public statement, calling on political stakeholders to commit to implementing these measures as part of their election pledges.
The foundation’s report emphasises that Bangladesh has yet to develop a fully safe and user-centric transport network across road, rail, and waterways. Endemic corruption, politically influenced extortion, and inconsistent policy implementation have hampered long-term transport planning. The consequences are severe: rising traffic congestion, increasing road accidents, loss of life, and long-term disability. Low- and middle-income households bear the brunt of these failures, while extended traffic jams reduce national productivity and discourage investment.
The foundation asserts that, with strong political will, the following measures can be effectively implemented:
| No | Demand | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reconstitution of National Road Safety Council | Oversight by BRTA, BRTC, DTC; empowered to formulate laws and regulations |
| 2 | Administrative Reform | Appoint sector-specific experts to senior posts; ensure transparency and accountability |
| 3 | Modern Bus Services | Company-based system with controlled routes and schedules in Dhaka |
| 4 | Mandatory School and College Buses | Reduce congestion; provide tax breaks and low-interest loans |
| 5 | Advanced Safety Technology | Mandatory use of ITS, GPS, and RTSMS systems |
| 6 | Withdrawal of Outdated Vehicles | Remove old and unsafe vehicles to enhance road safety |
| 7 | Skilled Driver Development | Provide training and professional benefits for drivers |
| 8 | Trauma Care in Accident-Prone Areas | Establish emergency medical centres along main roads |
| 9 | Safety of Three-Wheelers and Small Vehicles | Improved road design and regular safety audits |
| 10 | Integrated Transport Ministry | Coordination across road, rail, and waterway networks |
| 11 | Administrative Capacity Training | Strengthen skills in road safety management |
| 12 | Budget for Awareness Programmes | Fund public education and safety campaigns |
| 13 | Financial Support for Accident Victims | Annual disbursement of BDT 70 billion through a dedicated trust fund |
The foundation underlined that effective road safety management requires timely policy reform, technological advancement, infrastructure development, and public awareness campaigns. However, the cornerstone of achieving these goals is resolute political commitment.
If implemented, the thirteen-point plan is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for Bangladesh’s citizens, reduce fatalities and injuries from traffic accidents, and minimise the economic losses associated with congestion and road incidents. The foundation called on all political parties to adopt these measures as an integral part of their national transport policies.