In order to keep moving forward on our path to development, it is vital that we ensure the safety and well-being of all those who have had a significant role to play in our progress so far.
It is disconcerting, therefore, that workplace hazards continue to be a prevalent phenomenon, causing injuries and even death for thousands of workers every year.
As per a survey conducted by Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS), a total of 1,034 deaths were caused due to workplace accidents in 2022, with almost as many injured in similar incidents.
What is even more discouraging is that many of these incidents and deaths go unreported -- meaning these already alarming figures we are presented with do not give us the complete picture.
Although the number of fatalities decreased by 2% from the previous year, there is little comfort in the fact that our workplaces -- especially in the transport sector -- continue to be extremely dangerous for employees.
Insiders claim that accidents as such have increased due to the lack of a proper system in place, and misconduct by those in charge.
This cannot be the norm for us.
Our workers are the very foundation of this country, and it is on their backs that we continue to build a developed Bangladesh.
To subject these labourers to mistreatment or abuse is, in itself, unforgivable; with severe injuries and the loss of lives added to that, we have a criminal offense that demands immediate action.
As we begin a new year, our attention must be redirected to the dire state our workers are made to work in. Relevant authorities need to take strict action to eradicate any form of abuse directed towards workers, and establish policies to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for them.
Let 2023 be the year where we create secure and just workplaces for all. It is the least we can do.