Rajbari: Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam stated that most road accidents in Bangladesh are caused by unskilled drivers and faulty vehicles. He also identified public unawareness and the simultaneous movement of various vehicle types on the same roads as significant contributors to frequent accidents.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister made these remarks during a cheque distribution and public awareness programme focused on road accident prevention. The event was held at the Rajbari municipality auditorium and was jointly organized by the district administration and Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). The minister cited a recent bus sinking incident at the Daulatdia ferry ghat, attributing the tragedy to driver incompetence, negligence, reckless behavior, and unfit vehicles.
The minister revealed that the government has launched a Tk 2,800 crore project, supported financially by the World Bank, aimed at reducing road accidents. As part of this initiative, approximately 60,000 drivers will undergo training programs. Regular activities such as driver training, eye tests, blood pressure checks, and drug screenings are planned to improve road safety. The minister called for increased caution and awareness as the government implements necessary measures to prevent accidents.
State Minister for Road and Transport and Bridges Ministry, Habibur Rashid, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the urgent need to ensure road safety. He stressed that development becomes meaningful only when people are safe, advocating for discipline in the transport system and road management. Rashid urged all stakeholders to work responsibly and take coordinated actions to prevent accidents.
Furthermore, State Minister for Cultural Affairs and Rajbari-1 MP Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom highlighted the necessity of constructing a second Padma Bridge on the Daulatdia-Paturia route to reduce accidents. He mentioned ongoing movements for the Padma Barrage and another Padma Bridge since 1994, noting that the Padma Barrage project has received approval from the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). Khyom requested the minister’s support in implementing the second Padma Bridge project, considering the needs of the neglected and underdeveloped people in the region.