Dhaka's worsening traffic condition

Across Dhaka city, traffic conditions are worsening with daily traffic congestions that last for hours. To avoid the peak hour rush, people are compelled to leave their homes early to reach their destinations on time. However, the roads are packed with vehicles almost all day long. The horrendous congestion is taking a toll on the life of the city dwellers and daily commuters. The deplorable traffic situation is paving the way for other problems such as rising noise pollution. Constant noise of horns causes hearing issues, headaches, etc. Also, a large number of vehicles on the roads have been increasing carbon emissions, which is exacerbating the air quality in the capital.

Poor urban planning and traffic management system in the city can be blamed for such a frustrating situation. I think the commuters and even the traffic police should become more conscious about maintaining traffic rules, otherwise the construction of all the flyovers and metro rail, meant for mitigating the traffic, would only go in vain. The authorities concerned must undertake measures to address the traffic problems. Roads must be re-modelled and widened to accommodate more vehicles. People should be encouraged to use public transport as this can help reduce both traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

Fariha Tabassum Piya,

Student of Department of Management,

University of Dhaka, Dhaka,

f.tabassum36@gmail.com