Bangladesh Urged to Prioritize Road Safety Ahead of National Elections

Road safety has become a pressing issue in Bangladesh ahead of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections. The Road Safety Coalition Bangladesh is calling on political parties to include stronger protections in their election promises. Current laws fail to safeguard pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, leaving thousands at risk every year.

At a recent press conference, the coalition highlighted the urgent need for reform. Moderated by Kazi Borhan Uddin, the event brought together representatives from multiple organisations. They stressed that road crashes remain one of the country's top causes of death and injury, straining both the economy and healthcare system.

Official figures show around 5,000 fatalities and over 10,000 injuries or disabilities annually. However, the World Health Organization, NGOs, and media reports suggest the real numbers could be far higher. The existing Road Transport Act, 2018, and its 2022 rules lack key measures, including proper crash investigations and data collection.

The coalition is pushing for a new Road Safety Law based on the Safe System Approach. This method aims to reduce accidents by improving infrastructure, vehicle standards, and enforcement. With elections approaching, the group wants parties to make road safety a priority in their manifestos.

The coalition's demands come as Bangladesh faces a growing road safety crisis. A stronger legal framework could help cut deaths and injuries while easing pressure on public services. The next government's response will determine whether meaningful changes are finally put in place.