2,778 killed in road accidents in six months: Save the Road

Over the past six months, a total of 2,778 people have died in road accidents nationwide, while 17,826 others sustained injuries, according to a survey by the research organization Save the Road.

The report, released on Friday, states that between January and June 2025, Bangladesh experienced 17,957 road accidents. In addition, 615 accidents occurred on waterways resulting in 14 deaths and 451 injuries, while rail accidents numbered 526 with 14 fatalities and 184 injuries.

Among vehicle types, battery-operated auto-rickshaws and other three-wheelers were involved in 795 deaths, motorcycles in 673, buses in 825, and trucks, pickups, and lorries accounted for 485 deaths.

The survey also highlighted serious security concerns on highways, reporting 118 incidents of robbery over the six months due to inadequate police presence and administrative negligence. These attacks left 104 people injured. Furthermore, 614 cases of sexual harassment and two cases of rape were recorded during this period.

In response, Save the Road has issued seven demands aimed at improving road safety and law enforcement. Key demands include declaring July 11 as ‘Accident-Free Road Day’ in memory of victims of the Mirersarai tragedy, freeing footpaths from illegal occupation, banning unfit vehicles, strict enforcement of driver qualifications, government compensation for victims, formation of a dedicated Transport Police Battalion, and mandatory licensing for all vehicle operators.

The organization urges the government and authorities to take immediate action to address these critical issues to reduce road accidents and improve safety nationwide.