Banned laser lights in Dhaka's traffic control

Night in the capital, Dhaka. Red and blue lights flash at intersections, the cacophony of car horns never ceases, and the bustle of people spreads even in the darkness. Suddenly, a flash of light shoots towards the eyes—like a bolt of lightning, like the sun's intense glare, yet it is neither. This is a laser light. Defying a clear court ban, these dangerous beams of light are now gleaming in the hands of the capital's traffic police. They momentarily blind vision, halt movement, and endanger countless lives.

On-the-spot Visit
The use of laser lights was seen at many important traffic intersections in the capital, including Mirpur, Farmgate, Mohammadpur, Adabar, Motijheel, Paltan, and Kakrail. These lights were gleaming in the hands of the police or student representatives assisting them. In the name of maintaining traffic discipline, they are shining these lights directly into the eyes of bus, private car, and motorcycle drivers. Furthermore, these lights were also seen being pointed at pedestrians in an attempt to control them. Additionally, it has been learned that the use of laser lights around the airport area has threatened aviation safety.

Accounts from Victims
City dwellers said they are suffering immensely from the use of such lights on the roads. Everyone, from drivers to ordinary pedestrians, says that when this intense flash of light hits the eyes, it becomes impossible to see what's ahead, creating a risk of accidents. The experiences of bus drivers, ride-share workers, or office commuters are all terrifying. Their statements reflect tones of panic, anger, and helplessness.

Ride-share worker Md. Mohasin expressed his anger, saying, "This light is terrible for the eyes. You can't see anything for a few moments. If this light hits your eyes while driving, it's hard to avoid an accident." Bus driver Rahmatullah's experience was more intense. In his words, "When this light hits my eyes, my head feels numb."

He said, "We are at the steering wheel for long periods; if light suddenly hits like this, our eyes instinctively close. The police at least give warnings, but the student representatives shine it directly into the eyes." Echoing the same sentiment, private company employee Injamamul Haq said, "Where the court has banned it, this behavior by the police is unacceptable. And it is completely unacceptable in the hands of student representatives. Yet, we see that they are the ones using the lights the most."

Doctors' Warnings
According to eye specialists, laser lights are extremely harmful to human eyes. A sudden flash can cause temporary blindness, headaches, or blurred vision. In the long term, there is a risk of corneal damage leading to permanent vision loss. Experts have warned that, concerning public health and safety, the use of these lights poses a serious risk.

Eye specialist Dr. Kader said, "This laser light is so harmful that it can permanently damage the cornea of the eye. Its effects can include headaches, blurred vision, and even vision loss."

The Law and Police Reaction
The High Court issued a rule on March 4, 2025, regarding the use of laser lights. The rule called for adopting internationally recognized safe alternative measures and taking strict legal action. The writ petition also mentioned recognizing the use of laser lights as a crime and ensuring punishment for it.

Even after being legally prohibited, traffic police and their assistants are still using these lights unabated on various roads in the capital.

Acknowledging the issue, police added they are taking initiatives to completely stop its use.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Joint Commissioner (Traffic-North) Sufian Ahmed said, "This light is on the court's banned list. We also do not want it to be used. However, we are receiving complaints that it is still being used in some places. We are investigating the matter seriously."