Road accidents claim lives daily, often due to ignorance and recklessness of both drivers and pedestrians. Many pedestrians, in their rush to save time, cross roads haphazardly ignoring foot overbridges. Some are preoccupied with mobile phones, further jeopardising their safety. Such behaviours are one of the major causes for road accidents.
Reckless driving is another major cause. Instances of bus drivers disobeying traffic signals or engaging in dangerous competitions are all too common. These reckless acts often result in severe injuries or fatalities among motorcyclists, pedestrians, and passengers. Despite the significant risks, such behaviour continues unabated, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws.
To curb this alarming trend, the government must take decisive actions. Strict enforcement of traffic regulations is essential to deter reckless driving. Unfit vehicles should be removed from the roads, and only trained and licensed drivers should be employed. Traffic signals need regular maintenance, and the authorities must ensure their functionality to avoid unnecessary chaos on the streets. Moreover, public awareness campaigns are needed to educate citizens on the importance of using foot overbridges, sidewalks, and adhering to traffic rules.
Sidewalks must also be freed from encroachment, ensuring pedestrians have safe walking spaces. The media, schools, and community organisations should collaborate to instil a culture of road safety from an early age. These measures, combined with collective responsibility, can significantly reduce road accidents and save countless lives.
It is high time all stakeholders- the authorities concerned, drivers and pedestrians-work together to make roads safer.
Asif Islam
Student
Jahangirnagar University