'Each of you is now an Ilias Kanchan'
Haste on roads is one of the main reasons of road crashes, said Ilias Kanchan, popular film star of yesteryears and founder of Nirapad Sarak Chai (We Demand Safe Roads) movement.
He was attending an orientation programme for new members of 'Nirapad Sarak Chai' (Nischa) at Jatiya Press Club yesterday.
Addressing the new campaigners, the road safety crusader said, “Each of you is now an Ilias Kanchan.”
“When I initiated the road safety campaign 25 years back, not everyone could understand my message. Some of them even called me mad... But I didn't stop,” he said.
“Finally, the general people have realised how important it is to ensure our safety on roads. Now people have also started demanding safe roads,” said Ilias Kanchan, who has been carrying the rigorous campaign since the tragic demise of his wife, Jahanara Kanchan, in a road crash in 1993.
He said the road safety protests of students made the government realise the need to implement traffic rules strongly.
“After the protests, we're seeing pedestrians didn't learn any lesson as they are still not following traffic rules -- crossing roads hastily.”
The Nischa founder advised new members to become aware first and then create awareness among the people.
“Don't tell drivers to drive fast. Better tell them to be careful and drive safely,” he said, also asking new members to take a stand against corruption in transport and road sector.
“You have got a smartphone. You can record any wrongdoings and let the people know about it,” he added.
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