The authorities concerned have emphasized the need for proactive measures to address the traffic congestion that may play havoc on roads and highways during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha festival.
Expressing concern over the prevalent practice of driving on the wrong side of the road to avoid traffic jams, collective efforts have been urged to prevent such incidents and enforce tougher actions against those who engage in such dangerous behavior.
The Road Transport and Bridges Minister ObaidulQuader said this while speaking at a meeting on safe and smooth Eid journey held at Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) conference room in the capital on Thursday.
The Minister acknowledged the tendency of numerous individuals, including dignitaries, to resort to driving on the wrong side of the road as a means of circumventing heavy traffic. However, he firmly asserted that even influential individuals would not be exempted from the strict enforcement of traffic rules.
He urged the traffic police to exercise their authority and prevent any vehicles from venturing onto the wrong side of the road, emphasizing that no exceptions would be made regardless of a person's status.
The minister further expressed his distress and sorrow over the high number of accidents and fatalities that occur during the Eid festivities. He stressed the importance of taking stringent measures and collective action to ensure the safety of travelers.
Minister Quader specifically highlighted motorcycles as a major contributor to road accidents, with large numbers of them often congregating at traffic signals. He called for immediate steps to be taken to address this issue and prevent accidents caused by motorcycles.
As the Eid-ul-Azha period coincides with the rainy season, the minister has also emphasized the need for urgent inspections of the country’s roads and highways to identify and repair any potholes or other road hazards.
He directed responsible authorities to promptly address road maintenance and take immediate action to fix any issues. Failure to fulfill these responsibilities would result in appropriate measures being taken against those in charge.
Responding to concerns from vehicle owners, the minister assured them that all compressed natural gas (CNG) stations across the country would remain open 24 hours a day, both before and after Eid, to ensure uninterrupted service.
The meeting, presided over by ABM Amin UllahNoori, Secretary of the Road Transport and Highways Department, was attended by representatives from various organizations, including the District Commissioner’s office, BRTA, BRTC, Road Transport Owners Association, Roads and Highways, Traffic Police, and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).
With the government’s commitment to strict enforcement, increased road safety measures, and comprehensive cooperation from all stakeholders, it is hoped that the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha festival will witness smoother and safer journeys for all travelers in Bangladesh.
