Dhaka: The government has initiated a campaign to conduct eyesight tests for bus and truck drivers as part of its road safety measures, coinciding with the July Uprising, according to an official statement.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Road Transport and Bridges Division announced that approximately 1,000 drivers will receive free eyesight checks during the three-day campaign held at inter-city bus terminals in Sayedabad, Mohakhali, Gabtoli, Tejgaon Truck terminal, and the BRTC's training institute in Tejgaon. Chief Adviser's Special Assistant on Road Transport and Bridges Ministry, Sheik Moinuddin, emphasized the critical nature of this initiative, revealing that a study found 66 percent of drivers suffer from eyesight issues, which have been linked to major road accidents. The interim government initiated the campaign to address these concerns and raise awareness.
The Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA), under the Roads and Highways Department, is spearheading the health and eye test campaign. Senior Secretary of the Road Transport and Highways division, M Ehsanul Haque, highlighted the necessity of incorporating eye examinations into the licensing process. The event saw participation from prominent figures such as Health Services Division Secretary M Saidur Rahman, Chief Coordinator of Sammilito Shramik Parishad Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, and BRTC Chairman Abdul Latif Mollah.
DTCA Executive Director Nileema Akhtar, who chaired the opening function, stressed the importance of regular health and eyesight checks for drivers due to the significant stress their profession places on their body, mind, and eyes. A 2023 survey by BRTA and Ahsania Mission revealed that 63 percent of drivers suffer from health problems, with 67 percent experiencing eye issues. Drivers diagnosed with vision problems will receive free glasses through Vision Spring support.
The program encompasses general health check-ups, including assessments of blood pressure, blood sugar levels, oxygen levels, height, weight, and various ophthalmological tests. Numerous government and private health facilities are collaborating on this initiative, including the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, Drishti Unnayan Sangstha (DAS), Al-Noor Eye Hospital, Vision Spring, BIRDEM Hospital, Dhaka Ahsania Mission, National Heart Foundation Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Medical Student Society (BMSS).
Additionally, several voluntary and business organizations such as Rotary Club Abhanikunj Dhaka, Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BRCS), Nirapad Sarak Andolon, Life Cycle BD, Ifad Group, Nitol Tata Group, Runner Group, Ranks Petroleum Limited, ADN Technologies, and Shell are supporting the program. The BRTC, Bangladesh Road Transport Owners Association (BSPMS), Dhaka Road Transport Owners Association (DSPMS), Bangladesh Truck-Covered Van Owners Association, and Bangladesh Road Transport Workers Federation are providing space and overall support for the campaign.