Traffic congestion stands as one of the paramount challenges plaguing Dhaka. These traffic snarls not only squander precious hours each day but also consume valuable fuel reserves.
What should be a mere 20-minute journey often stretches into several tedious hours. In light of this, the newly appointed Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Habibur Rahman, has embarked on a series of initiatives to overhaul the traffic system and alleviate the capital's unbearable gridlocks.
A pivotal meeting on the development of traffic management was convened under his leadership at the DMP headquarters on Monday.
Senior officials from DMP's traffic department participated in this crucial discussion. Following the deliberations, the DMP Commissioner issued directives on Tuesday, on enhancing traffic management and easing congestion in Dhaka, reliable sources have revealed.
Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Monibur Rahman of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, sharing his insights, said: "We are proactively addressing the root causes of traffic congestion and are committed to resolving them. Our efforts encompass a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders, including the general public. Our ultimate aim is to transform Dhaka into a traffic-free city."
Traffic woes of Dhaka
A recent research report published by the US National Bureau of Economic Research labeled Dhaka as the slowest city globally, drawing data from the analysis of traffic speeds in over 1,200 cities across 152 countries.
Dhaka occupies the top spot on the list of the 20 slowest cities, followed by the Nigerian cities Lagos and Ikorodu, with Manila, the capital of the Philippines, coming in next.
Notably, two other Bangladeshi cities, Mymensingh (ninth) and Chittagong (12th), also feature on this list.
This sluggish traffic pace has detrimental implications for the economy.
A survey report by the private research institute Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) recently noted that Dhaka residents spend an average of 46 minutes stranded in traffic for every two hours due to congestion.
This translates to an annual loss of approximately 276 hours per individual. A World Bank study further underscores the severity of the issue, estimating that Dhaka loses a staggering 3.2 million working hours daily to crippling traffic jams, resulting in financial losses amounting to hundreds of crores of rupees each day.
What are the directives?
In light of these challenges, the newly appointed DMP Commissioner has issued a set of directives.
These directives emphasize the optimal utilization of all bus stops or bays in the capital while barring buses from standing outside these designated areas.
Additionally, road junctions must be kept clear of obstructions, with strict enforcement against parking by rickshaws, vans, motorcycles, and other vehicles in prohibited areas.
Coordination and rationing of vehicles at multiple zones or sections in traffic management are essential. Passengers must refrain from boarding or alighting at flyover entrances, which should be kept unobstructed.
Furthermore, hawkers or mobile vendors are prohibited from occupying the main roads under all circumstances.
Entry of CNG vehicles and those from external districts or metros into Dhaka city is restricted.
Heavy vehicles, weighing more than one and a half tons, are allowed entry into Dhaka Metropolis only during specified hours.
Battery-powered rickshaws are subject to appropriate regulations.
Inter-district route buses are discouraged from unnecessary travel within Dhaka city, and the left lane on all roads must remain active. Cooperation with city corporations is encouraged where necessary.
The DMP commissioner's directives also underscore the need for the continuous presence of traffic officers, TIs, sergeants, and other personnel on the road.
Senior officials at the ADC and AC levels are expected to ensure their visibility on the streets and perform duties on a rotational basis if required.
Additionally, a courteous demeanor is imperative, with stringent adherence to body-worn camera usage during legal proceedings, accidents, and other related events.
