Published: 12:00 AM, 05 May 2026
Rabiul seeks DCs' cooperation in establishing discipline on roads
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam has sought cooperation from Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to bring discipline in the road transport sector to implement development projects.
"Successful implementation of central plans largely depends on the effective role of Deputy Commissioners," he told a media briefing after attending the Deputy Commissioners' Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.
Rabiul said DCs work directly at the field level in implementing government development projects. During implementation, they face various challenges, which were highlighted at the conference, he said adding their problems, expectations, and proposals were discussed, along with possible solutions, reports BSS.
The minister mentioned that land acquisition has emerged as a major obstacle. Citing the Dhaka-Sylhet highway as an example, he said that where only 20 percent of the work had been completed over a long period, progress has recently increased to around 46pc. Instructions have been given to complete the work within the stipulated time, he added.
He also pointed out various irregularities affecting road discipline, including illegal occupation of both sides of roads, setting up markets or cattle haats on roads, operation of overloaded vehicles, illegal billboards, and uncontrolled installation of speed breakers. DCs have been instructed to take a more active role in addressing these issues, he said. Rabiul called for increased efforts to keep rivers and government land free from encroachment.
Regarding the unrestricted movement of three-wheelers on highways, the minister said efforts are underway to control it, though it is difficult to
completely stop due to practical realities.
Plans have been taken to control it in phases, he mentioned.
Rabiul, also railways minister, said issues such as railway crossing accidents and stone-throwing at trains have been given importance.
The minister also highlighted various steps to control traffic congestion and accidents on roads ahead of Eid-ul-Azha.
He said installation of CCTV cameras on national highways has begun and will gradually be expanded to regional and district roads.
On extortion, the minister said it is a crime and strict action will be taken against it. Law enforcement agencies are actively working on this issue, he added.
To successfully implement the government's plans, coordination between central and field administrations must be strengthened, he said.
Without the active cooperation of DCs, restoring discipline in the road sector will not be possible, he concluded.
