Footpaths - not for pedestrians

Dhaka is a city where millions of people walk every day. In such a busy urban environment, footpaths should be safe, wide and accessible to everyone. Sadly, most footpaths in Dhaka are anything but pedestrian-friendly.
Many are broken, narrow, or blocked by shops, street vendors and parked vehicles, forcing pedestrians onto the busy roads-an invitation to accidents amid heavy traffic. Footpaths are often littered with garbage, construction materials, and even open manholes. At night, poor lighting makes them particularly unsafe, especially for women, children, and the elderly. The combination of physical hazards and inadequate lighting makes walking not only inconvenient but also dangerous.
The neglect of footpaths reflects a broader urban management problem. Public space is being compromised, and citizens' safety is frequently overlooked in planning and development. If the government takes steps to clear illegal stalls, repair broken pathways, and install proper lighting, Dhaka could become a far safer and more pedestrian-friendly city. Walking would be easier and more enjoyable, traffic congestion could improve, and the city would appear more organised, welcoming and liveable.
Footpaths are meant for pedestrians-not for encroachment or neglect. It is high time the authorities prioritise the safety and accessibility of these essential public spaces. By creating a system where pedestrians are protected and public walkways are respected, Dhaka can move closer to becoming a modern city where mobility, safety, and convenience are available to all.

Arshie Akter Sunny,
Dhaka
arshieakter205@gmail.com