Leaders of the road safety movement Nirapad Sarak Chai (We Demand Safe Road) on Wednesday called upon the political parties to include road safety issue in their election manifestos.
They also urged the government to enact a separate road safety act considering the interests of the pedestrians and transport sector drivers, helpers and workers.
They made the demands at a press briefing at the National Press Club marking month-long 'National Road Safety Day 2025' (October 1 to October 30).
Mirajul Moin Joy, acting-chairman of Nirapad Sarak Chai (NISCHA), who is also the son of the movement's founder -- Ilias Kanchan, virtually spoke at event from Canada.
Joy also requested all to pray for the early recovery of his ailing father, who is now undergoing treatment in the United Kingdom.
Liton Arshad, vice-chairman, NISCHA, said they have taken several programmes on the occasion of 'National Road Safety Day 2025' which will be helpful to ensure road safety.
He demanded to the government to form a separate 'Road Safety Unit' like scout, girls' guide, Rover Scouts, etc.
He said that it is not possible for the government alone to resolve roads accidents.
He said that effective steps should be taken by different organisations, experts and the government to address road accidents and to reduce the fatalities.
He called upon the government to enact a separate law on road safety.
He said that his organisation has taken 1,200 programmes marking 'National Road Safety Day 2025'.
National Road Safety Day in Bangladesh is observed on October 22 each year to raise public awareness about road safety and promote responsible behaviour on the roads. The day was established in 2017 by the government in recognition of the long-standing road safety movement NISCHA, which Mr. Kanchan initiated after his wife died in a road crash.
Various organisations, including the Automobile Associaion of Bangladesh (AAB) and the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), organise events such as rallies and seminars to commemorate the day and advocate for improved road safety measures.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com
