The necessity of a transport research institute

Road and transport research work now-a-days is not only confined to developed nations but it is now also being exercised in developing nations like India, Malaysia, etc. Bangladesh is one of the emerging nations, but its higher population density with lower road space has made it substantially different from most of other emerging nations in terms of transport modes choice. As such, a space-efficient transport mode strategy is more appropriate for this country; like different variants of double-decker buses, multi-deck train and water-crafts etc. Although discussions are focused on road traffic modes with particular attention to the battery-run and jerry-built modes, like Nosimon / Korimon on which the government has imposed ban and restriction, it failed to recommend alternative suitable modes that have de facto made the government's decision null and void; only leading to breeding further corruptions. Moreover, unacceptably inferior road safety standard which mandates the safety standard should be improved at the earliest possible time.
Although accidents result from deficiencies in road traffic environment, where involvement of road, vehicle and human elements are associated, only improvement of vehicle element would only address a part of this issue. Moreover, all aspects of vehicle element are beyond control; for example sudden brake failure. Therefore, safety features of all running modes could be addressed for evaluation and necessary rectification/modification could be made to improve vehicle element as far as possible. As serious lapses have been observed on safety aspects of many recognized modes, those have already been addressed in the earlier publications. The emission standards need to be specified; like many other countries that have already legislated low-carbon fuel standards. Because the extent of air pollution varies among different modes and type of fuel uses; for example, diesel-run vehicles are generally more harmful. Against this backdrop, the best way to overcome such a precarious situation is to set up transport research institute(s) with necessary laboratory facilities in the country that would provide effective guidance to arrive at a conclusive decision by overcoming all dilemmas related to road traffic modes. The effective guidance has immense importance, for example, the battery-run rickshaws might outnumber the ordinary rickshaws in the near future if proper guidance on alternative energy sources or technology is not provided.
But categorically, the most important issue in this regard is that the research institute must be a very effective and fruitful one. Therefore, the modus operandi of this institution would preferably be different - it would accomplish specific tasks and objective-oriented assignments with project-based work. On successful completion of assignment(s), the evaluation of individual professional's performance would be done, not only based on the current assignment(s) but also on their suitability and appropriateness for the next assignment(s). Thus, it is envisaged that the new modus operandi would yield officious output. Moreover, it is expected that such a new procedure would satisfy and attract donors and hence their financial and technical assistance also. A useful and efficient permanent set-up is very much necessary for evaluating the most suitable one from ever changing vehicle technology(ies) based on our need and environment.
The transport strategy must envisage several objectives, such as, safe, space-efficient modes, more employment generating modes, selection of most appropriate and affordable green energy sources etc. Safe muscle-power run modes should be preferred both for saving foreign currency and environmental cleanliness.
Moreover, standards and specifications need to be set up on various features on existing modes also; for example, on the most prevalent mode - the seating height of rickshaws is riskily high, especially for the old and infants; because if they fall from seat, they might sustain serious injuries. Therefore, current rickshaws could be modified based on Pedicabs' design features. The government had once imposed banned on bumper following an accident. However bumper is necessary but that must be safe for other modes based on proper evaluation on all aspects. Therefore, safe and different configurations of bumpers might be necessary for different modes. For another instance, the projected length beyond front wheel is a critical issue for effectiveness of Concrete Safety-Shape Barriers (CSSB) systems; therefore, the stipulation of maximum projected length (including front bumper) is necessary.
Besides, alternative options or necessary modification/rectification are essentially required for the modes on which the government has issued ban and restriction. In these cases, apart from safety concern, the energy sources are also a worrying issue. Recommendations of safe design and specification are comparatively an easy task than realizing recommended energy sources into practicality. For example, electricity is by far the best green energy source but its supply has utterly failed to cope with burgeoning demand even for more important sectors. However, the exploration for utilizing this source could be done using human muscle power; for example, pedal-power driven dynamo/generator can produce electricity. If required, more than one person could be employed to generate required electricity to run different modes including those banned and restricted vehicles like Easy-bike or Nosimon (after necessary modification on safety features). If this could successfully be implemented, then it would be a breakthrough of achievement that would not only solve the impasse but also create more job opportunities from each such mode. This is also an objective of our transport strategy.
Only some cardinal issues are discussed here to highlight their importance. Although, apart from transport research, research work on road has significance importance, research on transport modes seems to be a more pressing need at this moment.
The writer is a Traffic cum Road Safety Engineer. Email: [email protected]