Letters to the Editor
Better transports for better roads
Wednesday, 20 September 2023
At a time when Dhaka city dwellers are severely affected by traffic jams, we welcome the opening of the elevated expressway and metro rail. This development should relieve congestions in some areas, reduce travel time and significantly improve the capital's connectivity. Those who are fortunate and have their own transport like car can utilise the maximum benefits of Dhaka Elevated Expressway. But the elevated road should benefit everyone. The Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) service has been itroduced. More such services are needed.
Compared to our neighbouring countries, app-based rides' and auto-rickshaws' fare in Dhaka city is exceptionally high. For instance, if a commuter takes an Uber or CNG-run auto-rickshaw for a two way trip in the capital, it costs them around Tk 1000 or more. If the commuters try to get on public buses, they find them always overcrowded. This service in most cases is unusable and unsafe for female commuters. As a result, they have no option other than using expensive modes of transport. Therefore, it is high time for the BRTC authorities to introduce modern comfortable buses for better roads. Since our economy is growing, more people should come up with new plans to introduce affordable and comfortable means of transportation to Dhaka streets.
Rafid Alam
Dhaka
rafidalam80@gmail.com