Police enforcement crucial for safe, comfortable Eid travel: Rabiul

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam today (24 May) said a safe and comfortable Eid journey could be ensured if transport workers and owners act responsibly and police strictly enforce traffic laws on highways.

"If transport owners and workers play responsible roles, unfit vehicles are kept off the roads, and drivers follow traffic rules, then it will be possible to ensure a safe Eid journey," the minister said while addressing a public awareness meeting on road accident prevention at Chandura in Kaliakair, Gazipur.

"At the same time, if local and highway police can compel transport operators to comply with traffic laws, we will be able to enjoy a comfortable Eid journey," he added.

The minister said transport owners, workers, and drivers have a particularly important role in maintaining discipline on roads ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, especially for travellers heading to the country's northern regions.

"I am leaving the responsibility of maintaining road discipline in your hands today. I believe you will continue to show responsibility on the roads during Eid and in the future as well," he told those present at the event.

Replying to a question from journalists after the programme, the minister said no cattle markets or roadside bazaars would be allowed on highways before or after Eid, as those create traffic congestion and increase the risk of accidents.

He also said local administrations have been instructed to remain vigilant, while repair and renovation works on different highways across the country are progressing rapidly.

During the event, transport workers' leaders demanded the construction of an inter-district bus terminal in Kaliakair. 

In response, the minister said all reasonable demands of transport workers would be implemented gradually once discipline is restored on the roads.