Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, and traffic congestion remains one of its most pressing and persistent issues. With a population exceeding 22 million in its metropolitan area, Dhaka suffers from severe traffic jams that significantly affect the quality of life, economic productivity, and the environment. The rapid urbanization and economic growth have led to a significant increase in the number of vehicles, resulting in a traffic crisis that has become a daily challenge for residents.
Dhaka’s population has grown exponentially over the last few decades, driven by rural-to-urban migration. Urban planning has not kept pace with this growth, leading to inadequate infrastructure, narrow roads, and insufficient transportation facilities. Roads are often poorly designed, with inadequate capacity to handle the influx of vehicles. The road network in Dhaka covers only about 7% of the city’s total land area, far below the international standard of 25%. Many roads are poorly maintained, and riddled with potholes, making it difficult for vehicles to move efficiently. Additionally, road networks often lack proper planning, with bottlenecks at key intersections and a limited number of alternative routes.
Dhaka’s public transport system is underdeveloped, insufficient, poorly managed, unreliable, and often unsafe. Buses, which are the primary mode of public transport, are overcrowded and poorly regulated. The absence of a comprehensive mass transit system has led to greater dependence on private cars and motorcycles, further intensifying traffic congestion. Private cars, which make up a significant portion of the traffic, are particularly problematic because they occupy more space while carrying fewer passengers. Rickshaws, although environmentally friendly, are a significant contributor to congestion due to their slow speed and large numbers. The lack of clear policies regulating their movement on major roads leads to chaotic traffic conditions.
Traffic management in Dhaka is inefficient due to a lack of modern traffic control systems, insufficient traffic signals which are often malfunctioning or absent; poorly trained traffic police and weak enforcement of traffic laws leads to chaos on the roads. Many intersections are controlled manually, leading to inconsistent traffic flow. The absence of proper lane discipline and traffic regulations exacerbates the problem. Frequent violations, such as illegal parking, lane cutting, and ignoring traffic signals, are common. Illegal parking on roadsides and encroachment by street vendors significantly reduces the available road space for vehicles. The scarcity of designated parking areas forces drivers to park on sidewalks and streets, exacerbating congestion. Many sidewalks are also occupied by shops and stalls, forcing pedestrians to walk on the streets, which further disrupts traffic flow and increases the risk of accidents.
The financial impact of traffic congestion in Dhaka is enormous. According to a study by the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), traffic jams cost the city billions of taka annually in lost productivity, wasted time, increased fuel consumption, and vehicle maintenance costs. Delays in the transportation of goods also increase business costs and reduce overall economic efficiency. Traffic congestion contributes to severe air pollution, which poses health risks to the city’s residents. Vehicles stuck in traffic emit large amounts of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. The poor air quality in Dhaka has been linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues are common among those exposed to high levels of vehicular pollution. Additionally, traffic noise pollution contributes to stress and hearing problems. The daily stress and frustration caused by traffic congestion significantly impact the quality of life for Dhaka’s residents. The unpredictability of travel times also affects punctuality and productivity, creating a ripple effect on both personal and professional life.
One of the most effective ways to alleviate traffic congestion is to enhance the public transportation system, such as metro rails, bus rapid transit (BRT), and improved bus services, can significantly alleviate traffic congestion. Investing in a well-organized and integrated public transport system is crucial for reducing traffic congestion. This includes expanding and modernizing the bus network, introducing dedicated bus lanes and developing a reliable bus service, can encourage residents to opt for public transport instead of private vehicles. The Dhaka Metro Rail is a positive step, but further expansion and integration with other transport modes are essential. Encouraging the use of public transport through fare subsidies, improved services, and public awareness campaigns can reduce the reliance on private vehicles.
Implementing modern traffic management systems, including synchronized traffic signals, real-time traffic monitoring, and automated traffic control systems, can improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. Using technology to optimize traffic signals based on real-time conditions would minimize delays at intersections Enforcing traffic laws is vital to improving road discipline and reducing congestion. This includes penalizing illegal parking, encroachment, and violations of traffic rules. Expanding and improving the road network is essential to accommodate the growing number of vehicles. This includes widening existing roads, constructing new flyovers and underpasses, and developing alternative routes to bypass congested areas. Proper maintenance of roads is also critical to ensure smooth traffic flow. Constructing multi-level parking facilities and enforcing no-parking zones can free up road space.
Implementing flexible working hours and promoting remote work can reduce peak-hour congestion. Government policies encouraging these practices can have a significant impact. Educating the public about the importance of following traffic rules and the benefits of carpooling or using public transport can lead to behavioral changes. Awareness campaigns can help foster a culture of responsible driving. Campaigns promoting responsible driving behavior, carpooling, and the use of public transport can create long-term cultural shifts that reduce congestion. Dhaka’s traffic problems are exacerbated by its status as the country’s primary economic and administrative hub. Decentralizing development by promoting economic activities and job opportunities in other cities can reduce the concentration of people and vehicles in Dhaka.
The traffic crisis in Dhaka City is a multifaceted issue with far-reaching impacts on the economy, health, and quality of life that requires a comprehensive, a holistic and integrated approach to resolve. By investing in public transportation, improving infrastructure, reforming traffic management, promoting alternative modes of transport, and leveraging technology, Dhaka can work towards alleviating its traffic woes. While some progress has been made, much more needs to be done to create a sustainable and efficient transportation system that meets the needs of Dhaka’s growing population. The collaboration of government authorities, private sectors, and civil society are essential to create a sustainable urban mobility plan that ensures a better quality of life for all residents. Addressing this crisis is not just about improving traffic flow but also about fostering a healthier, more efficient, and more livable city for future generations.
ATIFA ANJUMAN is a Broadcast Journalist and News Presenter of Independent Television
