Traffic in Dhaka
Photo: Kaizer / driknews
The traffic jams in Dhaka are unbelievable. As the country's capital, it is a big mess. There is no sign of the authority's responsibility to the public. There is no proper ratio between the amount of available road and the number of vehicles. The ever increasing number of additional vehicles on the road makes life more miserable for the citizens of overcrowded cities. Millions of work hours are at a standstill on the road. How can the people of Dhaka get out of this painful situation? There is no simple solution. I think the government should encourage more public transportation and discourage private vehicles. Like all other big cities, the morning rush hour goes on from 7am-10am. In these three hours the left lane of all main roads should be reserved for public service buses only. All other buses and private vehicles would use the other lanes. Similarly, the same left lane rule can be used for three hours in the afternoon. Residents should be encouraged to take public service buses and leave behind their private cars at home. Public buses should follow a strict schedule with discipline. During rush hours, every two minutes or five minutes (depends from where) there should be frequent bus service so that passengers can travel comfortably instead of having jam-packed buses. Government authorities should treat bus owners and their employees fairly in a public-private partnership. Also, young people should be encouraged to ride bicycles. School and office areas should create room for bicycle racks, so that people may park and lock their bicycles. The government should enact a law which requires helmets to be mandatory for bicycle-riders to prevent injuries. A two feet wide bicycle lane should be made farther left beside the public bus lane. Improve rush hour rail and water bus service. Proper plan and quick implementation could alleviate the sufferings of many people. It breaks my heart when I see on T.V. a helpless ambulance with its alarm on and flashing lights stuck in traffic. Imagine how frustrating this situation must be for the patient inside. Authorities, please wake up and act now!
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments