Can a congestion price be imposed for Dhaka?

Dr Matiur Rahman :
Congestion pricing refers to a strategy implemented by transportation authorities to manage traffic congestion by charging fees for driving in certain congested areas or during peak hours. The primary goal of congestion pricing is to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance overall transportation efficiency.
In general, to introduce the congestion fee, the city authorities identify specific areas or zones that experience significant traffic congestion, such as city centres or busy thoroughfares.A fee or toll is imposed on vehicles entering the designated congested area. This fee can vary based on time, day of the week, and vehicle type. The price may be collected through various methods, including electronic tolling systems or manual checkpoints.

Congestion pricing often distinguishes between peak and off-peak hours. Higher fees are typically charged during peak times when traffic is heaviest, aiming to discourage unnecessary vehicle trips. Off-peak hours may have lower or no costs to incentivize traffic redistribution.
Certain vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, public transportation, or carpools, may be exempted from paying the congestion fees. Discounts or exemptions might also be offered to low-income residents or individuals.

The revenue generated from congestion pricing is typically reinvested into transportation infrastructure, public transit systems, or other initiatives to improve mobility and reduce congestion.
Benefits of congestion pricing can include reducing traffic congestion, encouraging alternative modes of transportation like public transit, promoting a shift towards carpooling, and potentially improving air quality in congested areas.

Congestion pricing has been implemented in various cities worldwide, including London, Stockholm, Singapore, and others. The details and effectiveness of congestion pricing schemes vary depending on local factors, transportation infrastructure, and public acceptance and support.

Several cities worldwide have implemented congestion pricing schemes to manage traffic congestion and promote sustainable transportation. For example, in the United Kingdom, the London Congestion Charge, introduced in 2003, applies a daily fee for driving into the city centre during weekdays. The charge aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. Exemptions apply to certain vehicles, and the revenue generated is reinvested in public transportation.
In Sweden, Stockholm implemented a congestion pricing system in 2006. It charges vehicles entering or exiting the city centre during weekdays. The pricing scheme reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality, and increased public transportation usage.

Singapore has operated a congestion pricing scheme known as Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) since 1998. It utilizes electronic tolling to charge vehicles entering certain congested areas during peak hours. Pricing varies based on time and location, helping to manage traffic flow effectively.
Milan introduced its congestion pricing system in Italy, Area C, in 2012. It charges vehicles entering the city centre on weekdays. The aim is to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and promote sustainable modes of transportation. Discounts are available for low-emission and electric vehicles.
In Norway, Oslo implemented a congestion pricing scheme in 1990. It charges vehicles entering and exiting the city during weekdays. The revenue generated is invested in public transportation and infrastructure projects. The scheme has decreased congestion and increased public transit and cycling use.
These examples demonstrate that congestion pricing can effectively manage traffic congestion and encourage sustainable transportation alternatives. However, each scheme’s specific details and outcomes may vary depending on each city’s unique characteristics and context.

Implementing congestion pricing in Dhaka, Bangladesh’s capital, would require careful planning and consideration of various factors. At first, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive study of traffic patterns, congestion hotspots, and peak hours in Dhaka. This analysis should also consider factors such as public transportation availability, alternative routes, and travel behaviour of the population.
To identify specific areas or zones within Dhaka that experience the highest congestion levels. This could include busy commercial places, major traffic intersections, or areas with high vehicular density.
Establish a pricing structure based on the congestion intensity and the time of day. Higher fees could be set for entering congested areas during peak hours, while lower or no fees may apply during off-peak hours. Consider differential pricing for different vehicle types, with potentially higher prices for private cars and lower fees for public transportation or environmentally friendly vehicles.
To deploy an electronic tolling system to collect congestion fees efficiently. This system can utilize electronic tags or automatic license plate recognition to track vehicles entering and exiting the designated zones.

Identifying exemptions or discounts for specific vehicles, such as emergency services, public transportation, or vehicles with multiple occupants (carpooling). Additionally, consider offering discounted rates or exemptions for residents of congested areas.
To conduct public awareness campaigns to educate residents and commuters about the benefits of congestion pricing and how it aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve overall mobility. Address concerns and dialogue with residents, businesses, and transportation providers.

Continuously monitor the impact of congestion pricing through data collection and analysis. Assess the effectiveness of the pricing scheme in reducing congestion, improving travel times, and encouraging modal shifts. Adjust the pricing structure as needed based on the outcomes and feedback received.

It’s important to note that implementing congestion pricing in any city requires careful planning, stakeholder engagement, and government and public support. Consideration of the local context, infrastructure, and transportation systems is essential to ensure the effectiveness and acceptance of the congestion pricing scheme in Dhaka.
Overall, congestion pricing can be an effective tool in managing traffic congestion and encouraging sustainable transportation choices. Still, its success relies on factors such as appropriate pricing structures, supportive infrastructure, and public acceptance.

(The writer is a researcher and development worker).