Dr. Forqan Uddin Ahmed :
Traffic congestion in Dhaka is a complex problem that requires urgent attention from both the government and the public. The causes of congestion are rooted in rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and an inefficient public transportation system. The impacts of this congestion are far-reaching, affecting the city’s economy, environment, health, and overall quality of life.
Several factors contribute to the severe traffic congestion in Dhaka. One of the primary causes is the rapid urbanization and population growth that the city has experienced over the past few decades. As people from rural areas migrate to the capital in search of better economic opportunities, the number of vehicles on the road has increased exponentially. However, the city’s road infrastructure has not expanded or developed at a pace that could accommodate this surge in both population and vehicular traffic. Another contributing factor is the lack of efficient public transportation systems. While Dhaka has some public transport options, such as buses, rickshaws, and a few trains, the overall system is outdated, inefficient, and often unreliable. The lack of a robust metro or subway system exacerbates the reliance on private cars and taxis, further increasing traffic congestion. As a result, many residents who could potentially use public transport choose to drive their own vehicles or hire rickshaws and taxis, leading to overcrowded streets and gridlocks, especially during peak hours.
The poor state of road infrastructure also plays a crucial role in exacerbating traffic congestion. Many of Dhaka’s roads are narrow, poorly maintained, or are in a constant state of construction or repair. Roads are frequently clogged with construction materials, poorly parked vehicles, and informal vendors, further narrowing the already limited space available for moving traffic. Moreover, traffic management systems in Dhaka are outdated, with little to no real-time monitoring or adaptive signal systems. This lack of efficient traffic management results in bottlenecks, delays, and confusion on the roads.
The economic consequences of traffic congestion in Dhaka are far-reaching. One of the most visible effects is the loss of productivity. The resulting inefficiency in the movement of goods and services diminishes the overall economic output of the city.Traffic congestion in Dhaka also has severe environmental consequences. The high volume of vehicles on the roads contributes to air pollution, which is already a significant problem in the city. As Dhaka’s population continues to grow, this environmental crisis is likely to worsen unless drastic measures are taken to improve traffic flow and reduce vehicle emissions. The health impacts of traffic congestion are both direct and indirect. One of the most immediate health concerns is air pollution, which has been linked to a range of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The frustration and fatigue caused by traffic congestion also increase the risk of road rage incidents, accidents, and unsafe driving behaviors. The social effects of traffic congestion are deeply felt by the residents of Dhaka. For many, the daily commute becomes an exhausting and time-consuming routine, leaving little time for family, education, or recreation. The urban poor, in particular, bear the brunt of the lack of reliable transport options, which limits their access to education, employment, and other essential services.
Traffic congestion in Dhaka also raises significant safety concerns. The city’s roads are often chaotic, with poorly maintained vehicles, inadequate road signage, and reckless driving practices leading to accidents. According to reports, traffic accidents are a leading cause of death and injury in Dhaka, with pedestrians and cyclists being particularly vulnerable. Overcrowded buses and poorly regulated rickshaws contribute to the number of accidents, as drivers frequently ignore traffic rules and drive recklessly. Moreover, with traffic signals often ignored or malfunctioning, intersections become hotbeds of confusion and accidents. Pedestrians often have to navigate across busy roads without proper pedestrian crossings or signals, which increases the likelihood of accidents.
Addressing the issue of traffic congestion in Dhaka requires a multi-faceted approach that involves improving infrastructure, public transportation, and traffic management, as well as fostering behavioral change among commuters.One of the most effective solutions to alleviate traffic congestion is to improve and expand the city’s public transportation system. Expanding the bus network and introducing eco-friendlier modes of transport, such as electric buses and trams, can also help reduce congestion and improve air quality.Improving the road infrastructure is another critical step.
Improving traffic management is crucial for reducing congestion. The city needs a modern, real-time traffic monitoring system to manage traffic flows effectively, adapt traffic signals to real-time conditions, and reduce congestion hotspots. Strict enforcement of traffic laws is also necessary to prevent illegal parking, traffic violations, and the reckless driving that contributes to congestion. Encouraging the use of non-motorized transport, such as bicycles and walking, can also help reduce congestion. The development of dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian pathways would make it safer and more convenient for people to use alternative modes of transport, particularly for short-distance commutes. Educating the public about the consequences of traffic congestion and the benefits of using public transportation, carpooling, and other sustainable travel options is essential for changing commuter behavior.
Modern planning to reduce traffic congestion focuses on a multi-pronged approach that combines improved infrastructure, smarter transportation systems, and sustainable mobility solutions. One key aspect is the development of efficient public transportation networks, including metros, light rail systems, and bus rapid transit (BRT) corridors, which offer reliable alternatives to private car usageModern urban planning to reduce traffic congestion is centered around creating a more sustainable, efficient, and people-centered transportation system. As cities grow in size and complexity, traditional solutions, such as simply widening roads or increasing car capacity, no longer suffice. Instead, modern planning emphasizes a holistic approach that integrates various strategies, from improving public transportation and optimizing traffic management to promoting alternative modes of transport and rethinking urban design.
(The writer is former Deputy Director General, Bangladesh Ansar and VDP).