Motorcyclists need to be cautious on road

Motorcycle is a popular mode of transport in Bangladesh. Since the last decade, the registered number of motorcycles across the country has been increasing overwhelmingly. However, it is one of the most vulnerable kinds of vehicle and now responsible for a large number of road crash fatalities. According to the Passenger Welfare Association of Bangladesh, at least 328 people were killed and 565 more injured in 304 road crashes in 15 days during the last Eid-ul-Fitr holidays across the country. The report showed that the highest number of fatal road accidents was related to motorcycles. During the Eid festival, in 165 road crashes involving motorcycles, 167 people were killed and 120 others injured, which are 54.3 per cent of total road crashes. Experts believe that these motorbike accidents are a result of negligence towards traffic rules, over-speeding and an increase in underage drivers.
Motorcycle riding can be very dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a newbie motorcyclist, your safety is of great concern. The harsh reality is that motorcyclists, whether experienced or learners, are 30 times more likely to sustain fatal injuries or even die in an accident than those driving cars. So, every motorcyclist must be made aware of the dangers they can face. And it should be done by launching an awareness campaign throughout the country.

Shahjahan Sirazi,
Malibagh, Dhaka,
mshaju001@gmail.com