Call centres for accident victims

Victims of road accidents in Bangladesh are left to die unless some miracle happens. The injured victims are left without any immediate medical help.

In western countries insurance for vehicles is mandatory for third party liability. When a road accident happens, government agencies reach the spot along with law enforcers and paramedics who take details of the parties involved in the accident. They also call for ambulance to send the victims to hospital.

In England all citizens dial at their national emergency number 999 which directs the local police station for quick action. There is Motor Insurer Bureau (MIB) which gives financial assistance to the victims of motor accidents.  

China's emergency hotline got more than 12 million calls in 2014, which can be reached by dialing 110. The city government introduced the 24-hour hotline in 1993 to consolidate the emergency service hotlines for police and fire departments.

I think our government should also introduce a 24-hour emergency number so that people, especially the victims of road accidents, can call for help. Police, paramedics and ambulance should turn up at the place of accident when some one is hurt. If an extra amount of Tk 200.00 is added to the insurance premium for 4.0 million motorists, it will generate enough money to run emergency services.

M. F. Karim

British pensioner,

Uttara, Dhaka.

mfkarim41@gmal.com