The rising flow of road accidents in Bangladesh is a matter of grave national concern. Despite having a well-outlined speed limit policy, non-compliance by drivers— mainly those of buses, private cars and motorcycles—continues unbridled. The result is a growing public health crisis, where avoidable crashes cost lives, inflict injuries and cause untold socio-economic damage.
The authorities have, commendably, set comprehensive speed limits based on vehicle types and road classifications. For instance, on expressways, light vehicles are restricted to 80 km/h, while goods-laden vehicles must not exceed 50 km/h. Urban and sensitive zones like school areas, hospitals and residential neighbourhoods have stricter limits of 30–40 km/h. These rules are designed not just for regulatory formality but to protect life. Yet, across highways and city roads alike, these limits are often ignored.
Observation from highways like the Dhaka–Bhanga Expressway clearly show vehicles travelling well above 100 km/h, flouting the 80 km/h cap. The consequences are dire. Research consistently highlights that with each 1 km/h increase in average speed, the risk of fatal crashes rises by 4–5 percent. A pedestrian hit by a vehicle travelling at 80 km/h has a 60% likelihood of death—three times higher than at 50 km/h.
Why then, despite clear evidence and legal frameworks, is enforcement so weak?
These rules are designed not just for regulatory formality but to
protect life. Yet, across highways
and city roads alike, these
limits are often ignored
The reasons are manifold. First, traffic authorities lack adequate speed detection tools, such as speed guns and automated cameras, limiting their ability to penalise violators. Second, driver training and road safety education remain minimal. Many drivers, particularly of commercial vehicles, are either untrained or poorly trained, often engaging in reckless competition on the roads. Third, existing enforcement is inconsistent. Occasional fines and awareness drives by highway police, are far from enough to change entrenched behaviour.
Nirapad Sarak Chai (NISCHA) Chairman Ilias Kanchan has rightly pointed out the lack of clear implementation guidelines and the absence of sustained government commitment. His call for stricter, long-term enforcement measures should be taken seriously. Similarly, public health experts like Prof Dr Sohel Reza Chowdhury warn of worsening outcomes, especially among motorcyclists and pedestrians. The use of substandard helmets, low seatbelt adherence, and unchecked drug use among drivers further compound the crisis.
What must be done? Firstly, investment in enforcement tools and digital surveillance systems must be prioritised. Speed cameras, licence plate recognition systems, and real-time monitoring can transform compliance. Secondly, driver licencing must be reformed to include rigorous training and regular assessments. Thirdly, national awareness campaigns should be scaled up, educating both drivers and passengers about the life-saving importance of speed limits. Finally, the legal system must ensure swift penalties for violators and meaningful compensation for victims.
Speeding is not a mere traffic offence— it is a direct threat to public safety. Every life lost on the road is a tragedy that could have been prevented. Enforcing speed limits is not just a regulatory duty; it is a moral and civic responsibility. The time to act is now— before more lives are needlessly lost to speed-fuelled negligence.
