Traffic congestion in Rajshahi city

Traffic congestion and public suffering have long been increasing in the Railgate area, the heart of Rajshahi city. Thousands of people use this route every day for commuting. Due to heavy traffic pressure and limited road space, frequent waiting at the railway crossing and long traffic jams are a regular occurrence in this area. Considering this reality, the construction of a flyover at Railgate is undoubtedly a timely and commendable initiative.

Although construction work on the flyover is currently underway, its slow progress has been causing severe inconvenience to the general public. Excavation at different parts of the road and blockages caused by construction materials are disrupting traffic flow, while pedestrian movement has also become risky. Traffic congestion is no longer confined to the Railgate area alone; it has spread to surrounding neighbourhoods as well. In other words, while attempting to solve one problem, several new problems are being created in the short term.

Students, office-goers, day labourers, ambulances and businesspeople are among the worst affected by this daily hardship. Small traders are facing financial losses due to delays in transporting goods and working people are losing valuable working hours every day. Dust pollution, noise, traffic congestion and prolonged waiting times are having a negative impact on public life.

Once the flyover is completed, traffic congestion in the Railgate area will be significantly reduced and the city's transportation system will become more dynamic. We therefore urge the authorities concerned to give momentum to the flyover construction work.

Mohammad Jahangir Islam

Student, University of Rajshahi