Zebra crossings are meant to provide pedestrians with a safe and designated space to cross roads. However, in Dhaka, many zebra crossings have become a source of fear rather than safety. Every day, countless pedestrians risk their lives while attempting to cross busy roads, despite using areas specifically intended for their protection.
According to traffic regulations, vehicles are required to slow down and stop when pedestrians are using a zebra crossing. In reality, however, many drivers ignore this rule. Instead of yielding, some accelerate in an attempt to pass before pedestrians can cross. The reckless movement of buses, trucks, minibuses, private cars and motorcycles has turned many zebra crossings into potential danger zones, leaving pedestrians feeling vulnerable and unsafe.
Children, elderly people, individuals with disabilities and those suffering from illness are among the most affected. They often have to wait for long periods before finding an opportunity to cross the road. In many cases, drivers use horns aggressively or continue driving at high speeds, creating additional pressure and anxiety for pedestrians. As a result, people face not only physical risks but also significant psychological stress while navigating the city's roads.
The situation is further worsened by faded road markings, poor maintenance, weak enforcement of traffic laws and the common practice of parking or stopping vehicles directly on zebra crossings. At many locations, the markings have become so unclear that both drivers and pedestrians struggle to recognise them, reducing their effectiveness as a safety measure.
To build a safer, more liveable and pedestrian-friendly Dhaka, the rights of pedestrians at zebra crossings must be respected and protected. This requires stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, greater awareness among drivers, regular maintenance of road markings and the installation of CCTV-based monitoring systems with automated penalties for violations. A truly modern and civilised city is one where pedestrians can cross the road safely and with dignity. Ensuring the effectiveness of zebra crossings is therefore not merely a traffic issue -- it is a matter of public safety and urban responsibility.
Ibrahim Ibney Aziz
Department of Sociology
University of Dhaka