Thirteen-Point Demand for Safe, Efficient Roads

Ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Elections, the Road Safety Foundation has presented a comprehensive 13-point demand to political parties, urging the establishment of a safe, accessible, and citizen-friendly public transport system. On Tuesday, 27 January, the organisation issued a statement outlining these demands and called for a firm commitment from parties to implement them as part of their electoral pledges.

According to the Foundation’s report, Bangladesh still lacks a fully safe and user-oriented road, rail, and waterway transport network. Endemic corruption and politically backed extortion have hindered the implementation of sustainable transport policies. The resulting traffic congestion and road accidents have escalated, causing numerous fatalities and leaving many permanently disabled. Low- and middle-income families bear the brunt of these failures, while prolonged congestion undermines national economic productivity and discourages investment.

The Foundation emphasises that, with sufficient political will, the following measures are achievable:

The Road Safety Foundation stresses that the effective management of safe roads requires timely policy reforms, technological upgrades, infrastructure development, and public awareness. However, the decisive factor in achieving this goal is strong political commitment.

Implementing these 13 measures is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for Bangladeshis, reduce fatalities, and mitigate the economic losses caused by traffic congestion and road accidents. The Foundation urges all political parties to adopt these recommendations as part of their national transport agenda.