Pathao Limited, the country’s largest on-demand digital platform, and ICT service company Access to Information (a2i) have jointly organized the “Safety Fast” event to raise awareness about road safety. Today, October 22, is National Road Safety Day 2019.
Road accidents are never acceptable to anyone. Therefore, a comprehensive plan has to be developed and implemented to make the roads safer. Also, everyone needs to be made aware of the use of foot overbridges, zebra crossings, underpasses etc. when crossing streets, said Honourable Minister of State for Information and Communication Technology Junaid Ahmed Palak. Appreciating the initiative of Pathao, he added, “To keep the roads safe, people have to be aware of the traffic laws and regulations. All organizations should take such a public-conscious initiative.”
“We all need to work together to bring discipline to the road,” said Mashrafei Bin Mortuza, Brand Ambassador of Pathao, Honourable Member of Parliament and the captain of the Bangladesh Cricket Team. “It’s the responsibility of the driver to follow the rules and be careful. In the same way, passengers have to be cautious as well. Passengers also need to keep road safety in mind. We have to drive a car or motorcycle following traffic laws, following the speed limits and taking all safety precautions.”
Hussain M Elias, CEO of Pathao, said, “Pathao is always working tirelessly to raise awareness about the safety and security of our riders and passengers. Specialized training is provided before the rider is incorporated into the ride-sharing service.” Drivers are included based on having valid licenses, motorcycle or vehicle fitness and verifying their driving ability tests. Also, Pathao is working tirelessly to ensure safety and security. For the rider and driver, an eye examination is being carried out, helmets are being given for both the rider and the passenger, a helmet exchange program is being carried out, and additional training is being given to drivers. Pathao has so far given out more than 26,000 helmets to riders and passengers.
Children staged a stage play to raise awareness about road safety organized by Access to Information (a2i).