Unrealistic ideas to resolve traffic jam
Photo: Amdadul Huq / DRIKNEWS
The article published in The Daily Star on December 29, 2010 entitled 'Finance minister on traffic congestion' has rightfully identified the true nature of our country. If we wonder why things do not work in our country, it is because we perhaps, do not really want them to work. Surely, I believe the government has NO right to deny the RIGHT of the citizens. Every citizen has the right to move freely. If the government fails to control the unruly bus drivers, transport company owners, rickshaw pullers, irresponsible car drivers, and of course the corrupt traffic police officers; it simply cannot transfer the liability onto public. The government can, however, impose restrictions in the form of charges for using certain roads at certain times to reduce the number of vehicles on roads. But before that it must succeed in managing its own force, the traffic controllers. Then it must enforce traffic laws vigorously. Fines for traffic violations must be high enough to deter people from disobeying the traffic rules. There is the option of making HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes on major roads like the Airport road. This lane will only be reserved for cars which carry a minimum of four passengers. If any vehicle is found with fewer passengers, it must be fined heavily. If this seems unsuitable for Dhaka, it does not need to be done. But under no circumstance should the government impose any rules that deny the public of their right.
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