Dhakas worsening traffic jams
Traffic jams
for hours not only cause countless loss in work hours but it also
creates serious air and noise pollution
Our capitals traffic system is considered to be one of the most chaotic in the world. Even this chaotic condition is multiplied mathematically when political parties hold rallies, stage demonstrations or VIPs pass through the thoroughfares. On Wednesday it was BCLs founding anniversary and the citys traffic system just collapsed, causing immense sufferings to the commuters. Yesterday the two major political parties AL and BNP came to the capitals streets to observe January 5 and city witnessed similar gridlock wasting the commuters precious hours.
The intense suffering of commuters thus warrants for holding these programmes by the concerned parties in a more judicious and practical way. Shouldnt the government now think of taking up a policy that would dictate parties to hold programmes in a manner that would not trouble the commuters? The sooner it is done the better.
Traffic jams for hours not only cause countless loss in work hours but it also creates serious air and noise pollution. Not surprisingly, some 26 percent people in Dhaka have been reported to suffer from breathing problem due to in-taking of vehicle smoke and other road pollution. With a booming population and increased number of vehicles commuting in limited roads, the jam phenomenon is likely to worsen in the coming days if the relevant authorities do not take the right kind of initiatives. In general, the incidence of traffic jams has reached such an alarming level that even holidays are not spared.
Addressing the plethora of traffic related problems are not the sole responsibilities of Dhakas traffic police alone, the two city corporations have to ensure that Dhakas roads and streets are properly and lawfully used for the citys ever-increasing populace.
Undoubtedly, any unbiased assessment of the capitals traffic management would clearly reveal poor performance of traffic policemen as the main reason for the quick deteriorating traffic mess. It is alleged that Dhakas traffic police more like to handle traffic manually rather than using street signals. But manual management has its limitations as the policemen cannot see much of the tailbacks. Ideally traffic should be controlled by traffic lights. This problem should be duly addressed through installing CC cameras for monitoring traffic performance.
Finally, it must be noted that vigilance on the part of the law enforcement agencies can ease the crisis to some extent. For a long term solution we need a more collective and concentrated approach. Dhaka has a limited network of either small or congested roads. Until sufficient road-spaces are available, such limited space should be appropriately utilised through stringent enforcement of traffic rules and punishing the violators.
