Two dangerous curves on the Itakhala-Azampur-Gazipur highway in Narsingdi’s Palash Upazila are being straightened to reduce accidents and fatalities.
The Roads and Highways Department (RHD) of Narsingdi has also planned to install road studs to make the curves visible at night.
The two curves, located near the Sekandaradi and Kashem Market, have been a major source of accidents in recent years. In the past three years, more than 50 people have been killed in accidents at these curves.
The RHD began taking action to address the problem after a series of news reports in August 2023 highlighted the issue. The reports noted that the curves were particularly dangerous for students, pedestrians, and drivers.
Since then, the RHD has installed several speed breakers, rumble strips, and warning signs at the curves. The department has also cut down dangerous trees and increased the sight distance at the curves.
Local residents have welcomed the RHD's efforts. "The curves were very dangerous," said Zakir Hossain Chowdhury, chairman of the Gazaria Union and president of the Sekandaradi A.M. High School. "Students and pedestrians would often cross the road at these curves, putting their lives at risk. Straightening the curves will make it much safer for everyone."
Mofazzal Hossain Ratan, chairman of the Charsindur Union, said that the RHD's plan to straighten the curves is commendable.
"The RHD has already taken some steps to reduce accidents at these curves," he said. "Straightening the curves will be a major step forward in making the highway safer." Hamidul Islam, executive engineer of the RHD in Narsingdi, said that the department is committed to making the highway safer.
"We have taken a number of measures to reduce accidents at these curves," he said. "Straightening the curves will be the next step in our efforts."
