Dhaka: Noting that modern urban management is not possible without smart traffic systems, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mohammad Ali Hossain Fakir stated that future traffic management in Bangladesh must be technology-driven.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the IGP highlighted the crucial role of smart traffic management in modern cities, emphasizing that they cannot function efficiently without it. His remarks came during a daylong workshop titled ‘Urban Traffic Management in Dhaka: Challenges, Innovations and Future Directions,’ held at the Police Staff College Bangladesh in the capital.
Fakir pointed out that Bangladesh is experiencing rapid urbanization, and the increasing number of vehicles, along with the expanding urban economy and the growing mobility of people, has turned road management into a significant challenge for the state. He stressed the importance of coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to effectively address these challenges.
The IGP mentioned that the Prime Minister has already issued special directives to implement effective initiatives to alleviate traffic congestion in Dhaka. He addressed police officials, highlighting that the public’s first interaction with the police often occurs through traffic police. He noted that a traffic sergeant not only controls vehicles but also represents the law and discipline of the state, and their behavior, professionalism, and integrity directly impact public confidence in the police.
The workshop aimed to develop practical policy recommendations and action plans to ensure better traffic management in the capital. Participants discussed various key issues, including identifying major challenges in Dhaka’s traffic management, evaluating the effectiveness of traffic law enforcement, improving the public transport system, enhancing bus route management efficiency, integrating rickshaws and other non-motorized transport, addressing illegal parking and footpath management issues, strengthening coordination among relevant agencies, ensuring pedestrian safety, raising public awareness, and planning future urban transport systems.
Officials at the workshop emphasized the significance of realistic recommendations and effective action plans to enhance traffic management in the capital. They particularly highlighted the need for technology-based traffic systems, public transport reforms, improved law enforcement, and stronger coordination among relevant agencies. Speakers expressed hope that the recommendations from the workshop would significantly contribute to improving traffic management and urban transport planning in Dhaka.