Traffic chaos plagues Trishal

For over two decades, unchecked encroachment by roadside vendors and illegal three-wheeler stands has been causing severe traffic congestion at Darirampur Bus Stand on the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway in Trishal upazila, leaving thousands of commuters to suffer daily.

Locals say the problem persists as no effective measures have been taken to resolve it.

Every day, thousands of buses and trucks from Mymensingh, Sherpur, Netrakona, Jamalpur, and Kishoreganj pass through the area, while most long-route buses to and from Dhaka make stops at the bus stand.

"Three-wheelers -- both CNG- and battery-run auto-rickshaws, along with human hauliers -- also use the area, often occupying the main road and worsening the congestion," said Atahar Ali, a local businessman.

He said the gridlock is mainly caused by the ever-increasing number of local vehicles on the highway while footpaths remain occupied by vendors.

"Around 10 educational institutions are located near the bus stand, with nearly 5,000 students forced to endure the traffic nuisance every day," said Sumaiya Nasreen, a college student.

Trishal Traffic Inspector Golam Moula Talukder said they are trying to ease the situation.

"We collect around Tk 4 lakh in fines every month for traffic rule violations, but drivers hardly pay heed. Footpaths are occasionally cleared and mobile courts are conducted, but illegal vehicles continue to operate. Only six traffic policemen are deployed to manage the bus stand area," he said.

Trishal Police Station Officer-in-Charge Monsur Ahammad said police from the station often assist with traffic management.

Trishal UNO Abdullah Al Bakiul Bari stressed the need for a coordinated effort to ensure a permanent solution.