Street vendors exacerbating traffic chaos

Traffic congestion in Dhaka city has further worsened in recent months, with roadside shops playing a major role in creating severe gridlocks. Areas such as Farmgate, Newmarket, Mohammadpur, Jatrabari, and Gulistan are suffering from this probem as shopkeepers have set up their businesses on the roads, narrowing the thoroughfares and disrupting traffic flow. Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen Md Jahangir Alam categorically stated that no shops would be allowed on the streets, but the problem persists.

In areas like Indira Road, despite measures to keep the streets clear, one can still observe vegetable markets, clothing stores, and other businesses occupying narrow spaces. The area around Tejgaon College is a perfect example, where narrow roads, packed with rickshaws, private cars, and street vendors, make it nearly impossible for pedestrians or vehicles to move freely. Adding to this, hawkers often refuse to relocate their business, on the excuse of a lack of alternative spaces to run their businesses.

This chaos disrupts normal daily activities, forcing commuters to endure long delays, making even short distances feel like hours. The economic cost of these delays is staggering, with workers losing valuable time and businesses suffering from reduced productivity. Moreover, the situation poses safety risks, particularly for children and the elderly, who navigate crowded and hazardous streets.

It is time the authorities took tough action to free up the footpaths and roadsides from illegal occupation, while also ensuring alternative arrangements for street vendors to maintain their livelihoods.

Zeba Maliha

Indira road, Farmgate, Dhaka

[email protected]