Infrastructure a priority for safer roads

A balanced and multimodal-based transport system is a must for sustainable development of the country, said speakers at a seminar yesterday.

Titled "A journey towards golden Bengal of Bangabandhu: safe and sustainable transport system", the seminar was organised by Road Transport and Highways Division (RTHD) at Sarak Bhaban in the capital.

Addressing the seminar as chief guest, Planning Minister MA Mannan said currently, infrastructural development are at the centre of the national economic agenda.

"The government is emphasising infrastructural development of power, roads, waterways and airways sectors. The road infrastructures are indeed like the backbone and ribs

of a country, playing an active role in development," said the minister.

Speaking at the session, Prof Shamsul Hoque of Buet's civil engineering department, said, "Widening highways will not bring fruitful results as all traffic congestions are seen across intersections. This will only increase traffic gridlock."

Prof Hoque also urged the authorities to construct Dhaka-Chattogram expressway instead of introducing a high-speed train on the section.

Mubasshar Hussain, president of Institute of Architects Bangladesh, said coordination is a must for sustainable development in the transport sector.

Among others, Mashfee Binte Shams, foreign affairs ministry secretary (East); Md Nazrul Islam, secretary, RTHD; Neelima Akhter, additional secretary, RTHD; and Md Abdus Sabur, chief engineer, Roads and Highways Department, also addressed the seminar.