Mere instructions won't work, practical steps needed to solve traffic jam

For the past two decades, government efforts to address traffic congestion in Dhaka have often resulted in more promises than practical solutions. Each wrong attempt has left residents facing worsening traffic jams day by day. During office hours, Dhaka comes to a complete standstill, and the situation deteriorates further during rain, literally paralyzing the city.

Recently, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus reiterated the need for a swift and effective solution to the traffic crisis. While various strategies have been proposed—such as minimizing stops for vehicles, enforcing a two-minute limit at bus stops, increasing the number of public transportat, and reforming traffic signal systems—implementation remains inconsistent, and the status quo persists.

The crux of the issue lies in the relentless increase of vehicles without corresponding road expansion. With no feasible options for expanding roadways in Dhaka, a more radical solution is necessary: relocating major government offices and courts outside the city. Currently, Dhaka is congested with key institutions, commercial and residential areas, educational facilities, hospitals, and supermarkets all concentrated in one location.

Additionally, the city sees the arrival of about 500 new cars and 2,000 new residents each day, amounting to approximately six lakh new people annually. It is clear that without a comprehensive, long-term strategy, eliminating traffic congestion in Dhaka will remain an unattainable goal.

In Dhaka, a staggering 82 lakh working hours are wasted daily due to traffic congestion. This immense loss represents a significant resource drain for the state, yet discussions about alleviating traffic issues often remain muted. While conversations around the constitution, society, and politics have gained traction, the urgent topic of Dhaka's traffic crisis receives far less attention. It seems that many believe the problem will be resolved itself if only the constitutional framework is improved. While constitutional discussions are important, equally crucial is the need to revitalize the capital.

We urge policymakers, intellectuals, and citizens to recognize the gravity of Dhaka's traffic situation. Recently, the commerce advisor noted that traffic jams are commonplace and that developing civic sense is essential, acknowledging the challenges faced by the traffic police. However, we must respectfully point out that the congestion in Dhaka has reached such critical levels that simply fostering civic awareness will not suffice; the issue is far beyond the reach of law enforcement alone.

The entire system is stagnant and cannot be transformed without a comprehensive plan. Even increasing public transportation options may not yield results, as those with financial means will inevitably opt for private cars. In a capitalist society, mere discussions about policy changes will not bring about real solutions. What is urgently needed is the expansion and decentralization of Dhaka.

Civic facilities should be made accessible, convenient, and modern throughout the country, so that people from remote areas are not compelled to migrate to Dhaka for essential services. By addressing these basic issues, we can begin to alleviate the traffic congestion that plagues the capital.