Various risky and illegal three-wheeler vehicles, including locally made Nosmin, Koriman, Bhotbhoti and unsafe battery-run auto rickshaws are plying on the upazila roads, highways and local roads in Ishawardi upazila, leading to an increasing number of accidents every day.
Despite government-imposed restrictions, risky and illegal vehicles such as Nosmin, Koriman, Bhotbhoti, and battery-run auto-rickshaws continue to operate unchecked on highways and local roads in Ishwardi Upazila. These vehicles are seen moving freely both day and night, disregarding traffic laws and endangering lives. Consequently, frequently accidents occur in the roads and highways, often resulting in fatalities or serious injuries to children, youth, and the elderly.
Reports indicate that these unauthorized vehicles are particularly prevalent on routes like Ishwardi-Pabna, Muladuli-Dashuria, Dashuria-Kushtia, and Ishwardi-Baneshwar (Rajshahi). Despite their illegal operation, allegations have surfaced that highway and traffic police often ignore their presence and fail to take necessary action. These vehicles also dominate local roads in the upazila, contributing to a rise in accidents almost daily.
When this correspondent visited Dhulti area on the Ishwardi-Pabna highway revealed that unsafe vehicles, including Nosmin, Koriman, Bhotbhoti, and auto-rickshaws, were operating recklessly, competing with one another on the road. This behavior was similarly observed on other major routes, such as Muladuli-Dashuria and Dashuria-Kushtia highways. On some stretches, highway and traffic police were spotted, but they took no measures to stop the illegal vehicles.
When the correspondent spoke to the locals, they said that that hundreds of such vehicles ply on the roads daily, ignoring traffic regulations. Their uncontrolled movement and reckless speeds make the roads increasingly unsafe and difficult to manage. Many accidents occur frequently, leaving victims either injured or dead. Residents alleged that despite occasional patrolling, traffic police are often absent or fail to take consistent action. Furthermore, they accused some officers of accepting bribes, enabling these illegal vehicles to continue operating without consequences. They also pointed out that individuals responsible for accidents often face no significant legal repercussions, perpetuating lawlessness on the roads.
Auto-rickshaw drivers on the Ishwardi-Pabna highway admitted that police cooperation allows these illegal vehicles to operate freely. They expressed frustration, noting that road accidents are unlikely to decrease unless these irregularities are thoroughly addressed.
Traffic Inspector of Ishwardi Town, Abdullah Al Mamud, said that the Ishwardi-Baneshwar road up to the Arambaria area is under his department's jurisdiction. However, he highlighted the lack of manpower as a significant challenge in managing vehicle control on this stretch of the road. He assured that regular patrolling and document checks are carried out and that special teams are often deployed for this purpose. Denying allegations of bribe-taking, he described such claims as baseless and untrue.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Pakshi highway police station MA Wadud acknowledged the difficulties in controlling traffic due to staff shortages, transfers, and other challenges. He explained that drivers’ non-compliance with road safety laws has worsened the situation, as many operate without regard for rules or regulations. Despite these hurdles, he emphasized that their monitoring and enforcement efforts are ongoing. He expressed hope that the problems would be resolved soon. Regarding accidents, he cited excessive speeding and a failure to follow traffic laws as primary causes. Addressing allegations of corruption, he stated that since his recent appointment, he has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal activities.
In contrast, Ishwardi Police Station OC Shahidul Islam asserted that traffic police take strict action against unauthorized vehicles and drivers who violate traffic laws. He mentioned that drivers found operating without licenses or disregarding safety regulations face penalties in accordance with the law.
Despite these assurances from officials, the continued unchecked operation of illegal vehicles remains a pressing concern for the residents of Ishwardi upazila, who hope for stricter enforcement to ensure road safety and prevent further tragedies.
