Suggestions for improvement in public transport

Buses in Dhaka should maintain a strict timetable as follows – 5 am to 9 am and 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm on weekdays for five minute interval buses; 9 am to 4.30 pm and 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm on weekdays for 15 minute interval buses; and 8 am to 11 pm on weekends and public holidays for 15 minute interval buses. All buses should have two doors, and all routes should have individual colours with stoppages written on rooftop computerised boards. Buses must also have well-maintained engines as well as chassis capable of driving through roads, which should be strictly monitored by experts from BUET/ BRTA. Automatic traffic lights around the city should function without delay. 

Meanwhile, we must sincerely follow traffic rules and regulations in order to help the system run smoothly. Pedestrians who can walk must use the foot over-bridges to cross roads and encourage others to follow suit. Traffic policemen are often seen helping pedestrians cross the road near the airport roundabout, which is dangerous and inappropriate given the availability of a foot over-bridge nearby. The police should appoint more community policemen to ensure road safety and correct parking of vehicles. They should also impose strict penalties against anyone breaking these traffic rules. I urge the concerned authorities to spread awareness regarding these matters through the television, mobile phone operators, and news and social media. 

S. M. Rezaul Haque

Uttara