The role of the legal system in the road transport system of Bangladesh: An analysis

Statement of the problem

Road Traffic Accident (RTA) has become one of the major concerns for the development of a
country. A developing country like Bangladesh is not apart from its effects. In spite of great
progress in international traffic safety works, traffic accidents are still the cause of large and
increasing number of fatalities and severe injuries particularly in developing countries like
Bangladesh. Road traffic accident occurs when a vehicle is moving along a roadway collides
with another vehicle or object.
Summary as an Issue
Bangladesh is grappling with a concerning escalation in road accidents and fatalities over time.
Police records from 2015 reveal 84,000 road accidents in the past 21 years, resulting in 56,000
deaths and 63,000 injuries. However, it is acknowledged that the actual figures are likely higher
due to underreporting, as not all injuries are documented in police general diaries.

The inability of the police to record all road accidents has led to a discrepancy between official
figures and the actual situation. Different government and non-government organizations are
actively working to determine the accurate number of road accidents. The socio-economic costs
of road traffic accidents, estimated by the Accident Research Institute (ARI) at BUET, Dhaka,
are substantial. A report from the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) suggests
damages worth 40 thousand crores in the last three years, indicating a significant economic
impact.

The issue is further highlighted by the fact that Bangladesh is experiencing an annual loss of 2%
to 3% of its gross domestic product (GDP) due to the causal impact of road accidents. Vehicular
accident in this country has become one of the growing concerns to most Bangladeshis in recent
times. As a result of the tremendous effect of accidents on human lives, properties and the
environment are vulnerable. Many researchers have come out with the causes, effects and
recommendations to vehicular accidents The discrepancy between official results and
information from other sources underscores the need for comprehensive and accurate data
collection to address the pressing road safety challenges in Bangladesh. The situation not only
poses a significant threat to public safety but also has far-reaching socio-economic implications
for the country..
The road transport system problems in Bangladesh have far-reaching consequences, including
high fatality rates, injuries, and disabilities, leading to significant social and economic burdens.
Inadequate road safety measures contribute to traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and
reduced investment attractiveness. The resulting social disruption and inefficiencies in trade and
commerce further hinder the country's development. A comprehensive solution involves
improvements in infrastructure, enhanced traffic management, strict enforcement of safety
regulations, public awareness campaigns, and investments in sustainable transportation.
Collaboration between government, NGOs, and the private sector is crucial for addressing these
challenges and fostering a safer and more efficient road transport system in Bangladesh.

The consequences of road transport system problems in Bangladesh are far-reaching, affecting
lives, the economy, and the environment. High fatality rates and a substantial number of injuries
impose a significant burden on both individuals and the healthcare system. Economic losses,
including medical expenses and reduced productivity, directly impact the country's GDP. Traffic
congestion and inefficiencies in transportation contribute to environmental issues, with increased
emissions negatively impacting air quality. The road transport system's challenges also hinder
investment attraction, disrupt social cohesion, and create inefficiencies in trade and commerce. A
comprehensive solution involves improvements in infrastructure, enhanced traffic management,
strict enforcement of safety regulations, public awareness campaigns, and investments in
sustainable transportation. Collaboration between government, NGOs, and the private sector is
crucial for finding sustainable solutions and mitigating the adverse effects on Bangladesh.+

This thesis is focused on the recent phenomenon of the road transport system and road transport
act 2018 in Bangladesh perspective. Finding suggest that the old law motor vehicle ordinance
1983 replace by the road transport act 2018which is good but the fine is high.

How the legal framework of road transport system are effected in Bangladesh?