Corruption in transport sector remains a pressing concern: Adviser Nahid

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Nahid Islam on Saturday said that corruption in the country’s road transport sector remains a pressing concern, with its dynamics changing but not diminishing.

“There is a political influence intertwined with the chaos on the roads. So, resolving the issue will not be easy,” he said while speaking at a national dialogue held at the Bangladesh Press Institute on Saturday.

Nahid emphasized the need for institutional management and structural reforms to restore order in the sector.

The adviser said that political parties must play a proactive role in curbing corruption, as many of the issues involve their workers and leaders.

He also criticized previous administrations for their failure to deliver public-focused development. “Development under previous governments was not centered on the people. As a result, the public did not benefit. Future policies must prioritize inclusive development that addresses the needs of the general population,” he said.

Officials from organizations involved in the transport sector attended the dialogue.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) Mohammed Yasin underscored the need for modernization and announced decisive steps to improve the system. He said: “No old buses will be allowed to operate. A timeline has been provided, and necessary measures must be taken within this period.”

Yasin also stressed the importance of a permanent plan to free roads and footpaths from encroachment, noting that temporary solutions like evictions are inadequate. “The solution should be well-planned and sustainable,” he added.