Rajshahi, May 17 (V7N): The increasing prevalence of illegal vehicles is contributing to a growing number of accidents and fatalities in Rajshahi. A multitude of unauthorized vehicles, including an excessive number of battery-powered rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, CNG-powered vehicles, locally made "Bhat Bhoti" contraptions, and various motorcycles often driven by minors, are operating unchecked on both city and rural roads. The lack of effective administrative oversight has resulted in frequent minor and major accidents involving these illegal vehicles, leading to a rise in deaths and injuries and increasing public concern.

Traffic congestion is also a significant issue on rural roads connecting areas such as Sahebbazar, Laxmipur, Katakhali, Shiroil Station, BSCIC Industrial Park, Paba, Godagari, Bagmara, and Charghat within the Rajshahi city region. Alarmingly, a majority of the drivers operating these vehicles lack valid driving licenses and proper vehicle documentation. The suffering of the public has intensified due to various irregularities, including dangerous driving in violation of traffic laws, overloading of passengers, and the creation of severe traffic jams.

According to concerned authorities, over the past year, more than one hundred lives have been lost in minor and major road accidents across Rajshahi district. Since the beginning of this year alone, over a thousand individuals injured in road accidents have been admitted to various hospitals, including Rajshahi Medical College (RMC) Hospital. A significant portion of these accidents are attributed to uncontrolled speed and the operation of illegal vehicles. In most cases, the injured sustain serious injuries requiring prolonged medical treatment.

Furthermore, reckless driving by untrained rickshaw and auto-rickshaw drivers is exacerbating traffic congestion. These amateur drivers operate without regard for traffic rules and regulations, leading to an increase in accidents within the city. Consequently, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and passengers in private cars, rickshaws, vans, and other vehicles are also becoming victims of these inefficient drivers.

The general public has expressed their frustration, attributing this precarious situation to the absence of regular monitoring and proper enforcement of traffic laws. They have appealed to the administration to take strict measures to resolve this crisis. Additionally, city residents have suggested the implementation of comprehensive road safety planning and public awareness campaigns.

A local resident named Mokhlesur Rahman commented that while Rajshahi is known as a small and well-organized city with relatively manageable traffic due to bus routes, the increasing number of autos and rickshaws is causing significant traffic jams. He pointed out that while a color-coding system with morning and afternoon schedules exists for autos, it is often disregarded. Moreover, no such system is in place for rickshaws, contributing to the traffic woes of city dwellers.

A rickshaw puller named Abdul Latif suggested that the lack of driver training and specific regulations allows anyone to drive as they please, often prioritizing higher fares over safety. He believes that the introduction of a structured system would benefit drivers as well.

Paba Highway Police Station In-Charge (OC) Mozammel Hossain stated that their jurisdiction covers the Belpukur to Belgharia Bypass in Natore, where an average of two to three countable accidents occur daily. However, minor accidents also happen outside this zone, primarily involving three-wheelers like auto-rickshaws, tempos, and locally made vehicles. He assured that their campaigns against illegal vehicles are ongoing.

Rajshahi District Additional Superintendent of Police (Spokesperson) Rafiqul Alam reported that a total of 67 road accident cases were filed in Rajshahi district between January and April of this year, resulting in 67 deaths and 12 injuries. These cases were registered across various police stations in the district.

Deputy Police Commissioner of the Traffic Department of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police, Nur Alam Siddiqui, acknowledged the increased traffic congestion in market areas and stated that their campaign to control illegal rickshaws is ongoing. He mentioned urging the City Corporation and RDA (Rajshahi Development Authority) to cease issuing new approvals for these vehicles and strongly advocated for the implementation of a two-color system for rickshaws to further reduce their numbers. Regarding driver training, he clarified that it falls under the City Corporation's purview due to their vehicle approval process, but the traffic department conducts monthly awareness programs in collaboration with them.

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Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP) Commissioner Mohammad Abu Sufian affirmed that instructions have been issued to seize undocumented rickshaws and auto-rickshaws, and a crackdown is currently underway. He added that further action will be taken after discussions with the RAC (Regional Transport Committee) to explore bringing drivers under prescribed regulations.