However, once again, it was an accident on the tracks which was entirely avoidable; as per the police, it was the respective rail crossing’s gate man whose failure to do his duty resulted in the needless loss of a dozen lives. In July, a report mentioned that at least 113 lives, including those of 26 women and 11 children, were lost to train accidents in the first six months of the year, and sadly, most if not all of these deaths were preventable. To that end, the question must be asked: When will these accidents involving our trains and railways stop? There is no alternative but to educate the railway staff -- each and every one regardless of rank and responsibilities -- on the necessity of being diligent and dutiful, and sternly reminding them of the disastrous consequences of their negligent behaviour for which they will be held accountable. Failure to do so would simply result in more and more deaths, and we cannot let that happen any longer.

Source: Dhaka Tribune December 19, 2020 22:29 UTC