It is truly tragic how, year after year, our roads remain clogged with decrepit buses, trucks, and cars that should have been retired years ago.

Successive governments have promised reform, with the interim government being no different when they came to power.

Yet the reality is unchanged: Fleets of unfit vehicles continue to endanger lives, pollute the air, and undermine the efficiency of public transport. 

As such, with elections approaching, and with the country looking to turn a corner, this issue must be placed squarely on the agenda of any party seeking to govern.

The health implications alone are undeniable. Dhaka already ranks among the most polluted cities in the world, and outdated engines spewing toxic fumes only worsen respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular risks for millions. 

Our battle for clean air will continue, but these old vehicles that fail even the most basic emission standards offer nothing but a daily dose of poison.

Safety is equally pressing. These barely maintained vehicles are a major cause of road accidents as a result of brake failures, faulty steering, and structural weaknesses. 

Much like our battle is our perpetual quest to reduce road fatalities, and for that to become a reality, phasing out these vehicles is no longer an option.

Regardless of which party forms the next government, we need decisive action and no more empty promises. This should include strict deadlines for phasing out unfit vehicles, operators to upgrade fleets, and investment in sustainable public transport. 

This will not be possible if enforcement of such actions are not uncompromising, and for the government to no longer be held hostage by those who profit from making our roads unsafe and our air unbreathable.

Clearing the roads of old vehicles is a matter of public health and safety, and is long overdue. The future health of this nation quite literally rides on this.