Astounding traffic congestion costs

The loss being caused to the economy by traffic congestions in Dhaka every year is astounding. The figure, according to a government report, is estimated to be Tk. 20,000 crore a year. Additionally, around 32 lakh business hours are lost annually. Are these in any way, signs of good management or planning?

Economic losses on paper are, of course, not the only costs city dwellers are burdened with. What about the numerous negative human health effects of the routine traffic congestions? We all are already well acquainted with the continuous honking of horns on congested roads across Dhaka. Most areas of Dhaka, according to reports, even the so called 'silent zones', have much higher actual sound decibel than what is allowed and considered to be safe for human health. Taking this and the increased air pollution generation from traffic congestions into account, calculating the actual loss to the economy and on human health becomes impossible. After all, is it possible to determine, in monetary terms, the damage being caused to the health of an individual?

The atrocious situation, to a large extent, has arisen because of bad planning and management on part of the authorities, with the authorities' indifference being the underlying cause. The country could easily see the situation change for the better with an investment equalling the loss it is enduring every year, or even less, had the authorities efficiently utilised state resources to fix congestion problems. Why then do we not see things improving? 

Immediate course correction measures should be undertaken so that travelling in Dhaka is less expensive in every aspect.