Dhaka: US-based online portal 100shabda.com distributed free first aid kits among rickshaw pullers and public transport workers in the city today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the first aid kits and hands-on training were provided to the rickshaw pullers at a function held at Mirpur-14.
The programme, driven by the slogan 'Stand when you see an accident, save lives by giving first aid', was supervised by Ashiq Islam, senior assistant press secretary to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and the editor of 100shabda.com. The initiative was further supported by Shikder Al Zinnah, the publisher of 100shabda.com.
Doctors conducted hands-on training for participants on several crucial aspects of first aid. This included how to safely manage situations after an accident, handle bleeding and injuries, assist with breathing, manage crowd control, safely relocate the injured, and properly contact emergency services.
Each first aid kit distributed contained essential items such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic, tape, safety pins, gloves, and masks. Additionally, stickers with the message "Stand if you see an accident, save a life with first aid" were given out to be displayed on their transport vehicles to promote public awareness.
The event also saw former president of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), Mursalin Nomani, handing over the first aid boxes to the rickshaw and auto-rickshaw drivers. Joining virtually from the United States, Ashiq Islam emphasized the importance of immediate first aid response in the densely populated and busy traffic environment of the city, noting that timely intervention can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death.
Ashiq Islam highlighted that public transport drivers, including rickshaw pullers, are often the first respondents at accident sites. Therefore, equipping them with first aid kits and training aims to enhance their ability to provide immediate assistance efficiently.
The event was attended by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha Chief Reporter GM Rajib Hossain, along with senior journalists and various other professionals, including Saidul Islam, Yasir Arafat Ripon, MH Shaikat, Akhtaruzzaman, Md Mashiur Rahman, Mahmudul Hasan Rafin, Ridwan, Shapla, Asaduzzaman, and Dr. Enayet Hossain.