Motorcyclists on footpaths

Khalilur Rahman's "Last Column" published in the Financial Express on October 05 is a true portrayal of regular criminal activity of most motorcyclists in Dhaka.  Footpaths are meant for pedestrians; but motor cyclists jump on to the footpath in case there is a traffic jam. These traffic delinquents are common all over the city. They even have the audacity to blow horns asking the pedestrians to make way for their illegal movement.

On a number of occasions I asked the traffic policemen standing nearby why they do not fine these open traffic violators? Their usual response is that they have no authority to levy fine on them.

Can they not take the motorcycles under custody, and take the motorcycle to the police station? The cycle can only be given back upon payment of a heavy fine, plus the cost for moving the motorcycle from the location to the thana.

We request the traffic police authorities to conduct surprise check-up during the prime hours when such violation is at its peak.

S A Mansoor

Dhaka