The proposed amendments to the Road Transport Act of 2024 have ignited a fervent debate across Bangladesh, with Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) leading the charge against what it perceives as a perilous journey toward anarchy on the roads.
In a statement released on Thursday, TIB voiced grave concerns over the potential ramifications of the proposed amendments, highlighting their potential to exacerbate insecurity and disorder in the country’s transportation sector.
At the heart of TIB’s objections lies the exclusion of public interest from the proposed amendments. By reducing punishments and penalties for drivers and helpers, the amendments risk weakening the very foundation of road safety regulations, leaving citizens vulnerable to the whims of irresponsible actors within the transport industry.
Rather than fostering order and security, these amendments threaten to embolden lawlessness and endanger the lives of innocent road users.
While TIB acknowledges certain positive aspects of the proposed amendments, such as compulsory vehicle insurance and measures to combat fare manipulation, it maintains that any decrease in penalties will only serve to undermine the overarching goal of ensuring public safety.
Indeed, the government’s apparent willingness to entertain amendments that run counter to the principles of accountability and deterrence is deeply troubling and indicative of a broader failure to prioritize the well-being of citizens.
The cozy relationship between ruling party and transport owners not only undermines the integrity of the legislative process but also betrays a fundamental disregard for the public interest.
By succumbing to pressure from vested interests, the government risks sacrificing the safety and security of its citizens on the altar of political expediency.
TIB has raised significant questions regarding the transparency of the draft amendment process.
The absence of meaningful consultation with relevant stakeholders further undermines the legitimacy of the proposed amendments and calls into question the government’s commitment to democratic governance.
If the government is truly committed to enhancing road safety and promoting the public good, it must prioritize transparency and inclusivity in the legislative process.
In light of these concerns, TIB calls upon the government to reconsider its support for the proposed amendments and to engage in a meaningful dialogue with experts and stakeholders to address the pressing challenges facing the transportation sector.
