Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) yesterday expressed deep concern over the government move to amend the Road Transport Act-2018 amid pressure from transport owners and workers’ associations.

It also urged authorities concerned to prevent any move to amend the act going against public interest and the Prime Minister’s directive to restore discipline in road transport sector.

“As per media reports, if the government compromises with the unjust demands of transport owners and workers then it will be tantamount to contempt of court,” said TIB Executive Director Iftekhuzzaman in a statement. 

On September 25, Law Minister Anisul Huq said the Road Transport Act-2018 could be amended, if needed, so that it could be enforced without any hindrance.

“Although the Road Transport Act-2018 was passed by parliament, its enforcement has not been possible due to various demands raised by the leaders of transport workers and owners. The law could be amended reviewing the enforcement of such laws in neighbouring countries,” the minister said.

He came up with the information at a meeting of the sub-committee formed on the implementation of the Road Transport Act at the Bangladesh Secretariat.

The Road Transport Bill, 2018 was passed by parliament on September 19, 2018 keeping a provision of maximum five years’ imprisonment and Tk 5 lakh fine or both for causing severe injuries to or any death of any person due to reckless driving.