At least 27 people were killed and 106 injured in 37 road accidents on the Cumilla section of the Dhaka–Chattogram highway between March 16 and 26, according to Cumilla Highway Police. The incidents occurred along the 104-kilometer stretch from Daudkandi to Chauddagram, with most crashes linked to reckless driving, negligence, and lack of awareness. One of the deadliest accidents took place on Eid night at Padua Bazar rail crossing, where a train hit a passenger bus, killing 12 and injuring 18.

Experts said that investigation committees formed after such accidents rarely publish their reports, allowing negligent drivers to escape accountability. They emphasized the need for stronger laws and better driver training. The Road Safety Foundation reported 342 road accidents nationwide between March 17 and 26, resulting in 274 deaths, higher than last year’s Eid period.

Local residents accused police of negligence and alleged that excessive three-wheeler traffic and bribery contributed to the unsafe conditions. Officials warned that without stricter enforcement, fatalities on the highway could continue to rise.