Effective Solutions to Alleviate Heavy Traffic in Dhaka, Bangladesh

The traffic situation in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a pressing issue that affects the daily lives of thousands. Despite existing laws, enforcement is lacking, leading to a constant struggle. Addressing this problem requires both legislative and infrastructural reforms. This article outlines practical solutions that can help mitigate the heavy traffic in Dhaka.

Current Challenges

The traffic in Dhaka is so severe that many refer to the city as a dead city. The inefficiencies of the current transportation system are evident, with overbridges often blocking communication and footpaths choked with garbage and unwanted mini shops. These factors contribute to a chaotic and traffic-prone environment.

Professor Dr. Md. Shamsul Hoque, the leading transportation consultant and road safety expert from BUET, has addressed these issues in a way that is easily understandable, highlighting the urgent need for reform. His insights and recommendations serve as a foundation for devising effective solutions.

Theoretical Solutions

One practical solution that has been suggested is the relocation of the capital city, a move adopted by countries such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. This option, however, is not feasible due to various logistical and socio-economic constraints. Another approach is to strictly control traffic and ensure that all traffic regulations are followed and enforced.

Controlling vehicles alone is not sufficient; the entire transportation system must be reformed. This includes ensuring proper parking management, clearing roadblocks, and maintaining walkways. Additionally, infrastructure such as flyovers and metro rail systems must be properly planned and implemented to reduce congestion.

Implementing Solutions

To significantly reduce traffic in Dhaka, several concrete actions need to be taken:

Enforce Traffic Rules: Vigilance from law enforcement agencies is crucial. Regular inspections and strict penalties for traffic violations could help in maintaining discipline. Improve Infrastructure: Building more roads, flyovers, and metro rail systems can alleviate congestion. However, it is essential to plan these infrastructure improvements carefully to ensure they address the root causes of traffic issues. Promote Public Awareness: Educating the public on the importance of traffic rules is vital. Campaigns and programs can help build the necessary mindset among drivers (both public and private) to follow traffic regulations. Implement Proper Parking Management: Roadside parking should be strictly regulated, and parking should only be allowed in designated areas. This will free up roads for smoother traffic flow. Clear Footpaths and Walkways: Regular cleaning and maintenance of footpaths remove obstructions and ensure safe walkways for pedestrians.

Conclusion

While immediate solutions may not be sufficient to completely eradicate heavy traffic in Dhaka, a comprehensive approach involving stricter enforcement, improved infrastructure, and public awareness can significantly alleviate the situation. The city needs to shift from a reactive to a proactive mode in managing its transportation issues, ensuring that the citizens of Dhaka can live and work without facing the daily grind of heavy traffic.

References

Please refer to the following source for detailed insights:

.Professor Dr. Md. Shamsul Hoque's TEDx talk on Dhaka traffic solutions