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Authorities have launched drug testing for public transport workers in Chuadanga as part of efforts to prevent road accidents and build a drug-free transport system.
The initiative, organised by Chuadanga District Police with support from the local transport owners’ association, began on Wednesday morning at Chuadanga Sadar Hospital. Drivers, supervisors, and helpers of long-distance and local buses are being brought under the testing programme.
Police said any driver, supervisor, or helper found using drugs through the tests will face immediate dismissal from their jobs and legal action under existing laws.
According to a press release from Chuadanga District Police, workers from several long-distance and local transport services, including Royal Express, Purabasha Paribahan, JR Paribahan, Chuadanga Deluxe, Darshana Deluxe, Golden Line, Janani, Nadia, Sathi Paribahan, Rekha Paribahan, Mamun Paribahan, Shamim Enterprise, New Modern Paribahan, Saudia Paribahan, and BRTC, will be tested in phases.
The police also issued safety guidelines to transport workers to ensure safer roads and better passenger services.
Authorities instructed bus operators to ensure regular driver changes on long-distance routes and prevent drivers from operating vehicles for extended periods without adequate rest.
Police stressed that no driver should be allowed behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs, illness, or fatigue. They also urged drivers to avoid excessive speed, reckless overtaking, and risky driving while strictly following traffic rules and road safety regulations.
Transport owners and labour leaders were asked to conduct regular monitoring to maintain discipline in the sector.
Chuadanga Superintendent of Police Mohammad Ruhul Kabir Khan said driving under the influence of drugs not only violates the law but also puts passengers’ lives at serious risk. He added that regular drug tests and monitoring activities will continue to ensure safer roads.
The district administration and police urged all transport owners, workers, and employees to stay free from drugs and perform their duties responsibly.