Published: 11:55 PM, 25 October 2026 Last Update: 11:56 PM, 25 October 2026
Road Safety Is Still Not Properly Addressed
Road safety remains one of the most pressing concerns in Bangladesh, yet it has not received the attention it deserves. Every year, thousands of people lose their lives or suffer serious injuries in road accidents. Despite government initiatives, awareness campaigns, and stricter traffic laws, the situation remains alarming. The continued loss of innocent lives raises a serious question: why has road safety still not been properly addressed in our country?
One of the major causes of road accidents in Bangladesh is reckless driving. Many drivers violate traffic rules, drive at excessive speeds, overtake dangerously, and ignore traffic signals. Untrained drivers, unfit vehicles, and poorly maintained roads further increase the risk of accidents. In addition, some drivers operate vehicles without valid licences, while others drive under pressure to complete more trips and earn higher incomes.
Another significant problem is the weak enforcement of traffic laws. Although rules and regulations exist, their implementation is often inadequate. Illegal parking, unauthorized bus stops, and the occupation of footpaths by shops force pedestrians to walk on busy roads. Furthermore, the lack of proper footbridges, zebra crossings, streetlights, and functional traffic signals makes roads even more dangerous, particularly in crowded cities such as Dhaka.
The situation is especially worrying for students, pedestrians, and daily commuters. Many people lose their lives while crossing roads or travelling to educational institutions and workplaces. Road accidents not only cause physical suffering but also create financial hardship for families and emotional trauma for survivors. Such tragedies affect society as a whole and hinder national development.
To improve road safety, the government must take stronger and more practical measures. Traffic laws should be enforced strictly and impartially, regardless of a person's position or influence. Drivers must receive proper training and hold valid licences before operating vehicles. Regular vehicle inspections are also essential to remove unfit vehicles from the roads. At the same time, roads should be designed and maintained according to safety standards, with adequate pedestrian crossings, footpaths, road signs, and streetlights.
Public awareness is equally important. Schools, colleges, media organizations, and community groups should promote responsible road behaviour. Both drivers and pedestrians must obey traffic rules and recognize their shared responsibility for preventing accidents.
In conclusion, road safety in Bangladesh cannot be ensured through promises and temporary campaigns alone. It requires effective law enforcement, responsible driving, improved infrastructure, and sustained public awareness. Human life is precious, and no one should have to fear for their life while travelling on a public road. It is high time that road safety became a national priority rather than a neglected issue.
