34km Unmarked Stretch: 76 Killed in 9 Months on Brahmanbaria’s Dhaka-Sylhet Highway
Over the past nine months, a deadly 34-kilometer stretch of the Dhaka-Sylhet highway in Brahmanbaria has claimed 76 lives across 70 major road accidents, leaving 55 others injured. Daily transit along this vital artery involves over 25,000 long-distance vehicles connecting 20 districts across the Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, and Mymensingh divisions. Despite the massive traffic volume, the lack of functional weigh scales to curb vehicle overloading and a severe shortage of essential road signage have steadily increased transit risks, turning this critical corridor into a hazardous zone for commuters.
On-site inspections reveal heavy vehicles operating continuously while drivers frequently engage in reckless overtaking maneuvers. The severe scarcity of warning signs leaves motorists unable to anticipate upcoming hazardous bends, crowded market areas, educational institutions, zebra crossings, or restricted no-overtaking zones. Confirming these operational challenges, bus driver Farid Uddin said the lack of adequate road signals makes it nearly impossible for drivers to anticipate danger spots or manage speed safely before hitting critical hazards along the route.
Authorities pointed to ongoing development projects and shared responsibility for highway management. Mohammad Yunus Ali, Executive Engineer of the Brahmanbaria Roads and Highways Department, acknowledged the signage deficiency and said six-lane expansion work is underway. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Abu Saeed stated that construction has created chaotic conditions, adding that directives were issued to repair hazardous bends and install signage. Meanwhile, Katihata Highway Police OC Abdul Halim emphasized joint efforts to identify danger zones, and BRTA Assistant Director Faruk Alam stressed public awareness and driver dope testing.
As casualties mount, residents are strongly demanding immediate government intervention to restore safety along this vital trade and travel route. Community members have called for prompt repairs at dangerous locations, rapid installation of clear road signs, and significantly enhanced traffic surveillance. Furthermore, establishing functional weigh scales remains a top priority to prevent overloaded freight from worsening road conditions. Rapidly addressing these infrastructure flaws is crucial to eliminating preventable collisions and ensuring safe passage for the thousands of daily long-distance passengers.
