Eye test for drivers shows grim picture

At least 76 percent of 446 drivers, who recently went for eye tests over three days, were found to have various eye problems, raising serous question about road safety.

Out of 446 drivers, 243 were found to have vision problems, while 96 had other eye-related issues.

Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, in association with several other organisations, carried out the tests earlier this month, in preparation for the upcoming National Road Safety Day on October 22.

Besides, 393 drivers went through other tests, where 381 were found to have problems such as high blood pressure and blood sugar.

BRTA Chairman Nur Mohammad Mazumder revealed the information at a press conference at BRTA's headquarters held in the capital's Banani yesterday.

Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary ABM Amin Ullah Nuri inaugurated the campaign on October 11 at BRTA training centre in Nikunja.

On that day, 289 drivers underwent eyesight tests, where 164 were found to have vision problems, while 67 suffered from other issues.

On October 12, 112 drivers were tested at BRTA's Diabari circle office, where 48 were found to have vision problems, while 22 had other issues.

Eyes of 45 drivers were tested at Sayedabad Bus Terminal on October 14, where 31 were found having vision problems and seven others had other issues.

Asked about the tests, BRTA chairman said if these problems were found during the field test of drivers, they would not have been given driving licences. Besides, they are also planning to launch lab test for the drivers before issuing driving licences, he said.