Roads for People (RFP)

Physical inactivity and the related problems of overweight and obesity are major preventable causes of death around the world. The World Health Organization (WHO) has drafted a global strategy on diet, physical activity, and health which addresses the importance of non-motorized (fuel-free) transport as one of the solutions to the problem.

Promoting active means of transport (walking and cycling) could have an enormous impact on the problem, and both greatly increase health in Bangladesh, and serve as a model for other countries throughout the world.

In addition, environmental health is a major issue in large crowded cities, such as Dhaka. Decreasing reliance on fuel-dependent transport and increasing the use of fuel-free transport could have a major impact on reducing pollution.

WBB Trust has already gained considerable recognition for its work in this area. During the first phase of this project, it achieved a significant change in the way the media reports on transport issues, and recruited many NGOs to work together on the issue of transportation.

The Roads for People alliance consists of 16 Dhaka-based NGOs, of which WBB is the secretariat. While transport policies traditionally focus on improving conditions for car drivers, this program seeks to address instead the needs of fuel-free transport.

Objectives

The objectives of the project are to:

• Increase public and government recognition of the use of bicycles and walking as primary modes of transportation.
• Increase public and government recognition of the importance of rickshaws as an environmentally and economically-friendly mode of transport.
• Improve public transportation, particularly as it relates to the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.
• Increase public awareness of the Roads for People concept.

Project results will be posted when the project has been completed.