The Road Safety Foundation (RSF) has urged political parties to include specific commitments in their election manifestos to establish a safe and public-friendly road system in the country.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the organisation stated that a sustainable transport strategy has not been established due to extortion and corruption under political patronage.
According to the RSF, this lack of strategy has led to increased traffic congestion and road accidents, resulting in numerous deaths and disabilities.
Poor and middle-class families are the most affected by this situation. The organisation further noted that unbearable traffic jams are hindering investment and economic activities, a situation rooted in a lack of political will.
Consequently, the foundation is seeking specific pledges in upcoming election manifestos to develop a safe and people-oriented public transport system.
The foundation has put forward a 13-point charter of demands, which includes the reconstitution of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC) to oversee the operations of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC), and Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA).
The RSF also called for managerial reforms and transparency within these institutions. To improve urban transport, the organisation demanded the introduction of company-based modern bus services in the capital through route rationalisation and the implementation of mandatory bus services for schools and colleges to reduce congestion.
Other significant demands include the enactment of a Road Safety Act, the mandatory use of modern technology in motor vehicles, the withdrawal of expired vehicles from the roads, and institutional initiatives to create skilled drivers.
The foundation also proposed the establishment of trauma care centres in accident-prone areas along highways.
The RSF further highlighted the necessity of safe road designs for three-wheelers and small vehicles, alongside regular road safety audits.
A key proposal involves the formation of a unified Ministry of Communication by integrating road, rail, and water transport sectors. Additionally, the organisation suggested that training on road safety should be provided to officials of the administration cadre.
Regarding financial and awareness measures, the foundation called for specific allocations in the national budget for road user awareness programmes. It also proposed the creation of a Tk700 crore trust fund annually to provide financial assistance to those affected by road accidents.
The organisation maintains that while a safe road system can be achieved through timely policies, modern technology, infrastructure development, and public awareness activities, the firm political will of the government remains the most critical factor.
