Dhaka: Dhaka Ahsania Mission (DAM), in collaboration with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), has successfully trained 662 public transport drivers to ensure the enforcement of the Tobacco Control Law and to increase awareness about the health risks of tobacco use. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the training program, titled "Professional Skill and Awareness Enhancement Training for Professional Drivers," took place at the BRTC bus depot in Joar Sahara, located in the capital. Adut Rahman Emon, the Program Officer of the Tobacco Control Project at Dhaka Ahsania Mission, led an informative session during the training. The sessions were conducted in four phases on November 11, 14, 18, and 21. During these sessions, the drivers were educated about the harmful effects of both direct and indirect smoking and the associated health risks, along with the provisions of the Tobacco Control Law. It was highlighted that passengers, especially women and children, often fall victim to secondhand smo ke caused by drivers or their assistants smoking in public transport, which poses similar health risks as active smoking. The training included video presentations that helped participants understand the adverse effects of smoking in public transport and the legal requirements they must follow. It was emphasized that smoking in public places such as bus terminals, airports, railway stations, ferry terminals, and government offices is a punishable offense due to the exposure of non-smokers, including children and women, to secondhand smoke. To maintain a 100% smoke-free environment in public transport and ensure the law's implementation, DAM and BRTA have committed to conducting these training programs regularly.
