Trapped in their own city

Mirpur residents have to suffer the brunt of traffic congestion on a daily basis, which gets too unbearable at times. Of late, the problem has been exacerbated by the ongoing metro rail construction project which has significantly constricted the main roads and led to the closure of some smaller ones, causing immense sufferings of the commuters. Add to this the seasonal nuisance that comes with the monthlong trade fair in January, or the international cricket matches in the Mirpur stadium, which puts additional pressure on the existing infrastructure. Access to some roads leading to Mirpur is also restricted sometimes to make way for VIP movement.  

All these, coupled with the fact that Mirpur is one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in Dhaka, have made life particularly difficult for the residents. It has been going on for some years now, and I think it can’t get any worse. The government should take urgent measures to alleviate the sufferings of Mirpur residents by addressing its many problems. The movement and mobility issues of this part of the city need particular attention. With the DNCC (and DSCC) set to have an election on February 1, I think the mayoral candidates should also announce particular courses of action about how they plan to make Mirpur liveable again.