Environmentalists and development workers yesterday demanded more zebra crossings in the streets of Dhaka for safe and easier commuting.
Their demands came at a human chain organised by Paribesh Bachao Andolon (Poba) in front of the Dhanmondi Government Boys High School in the city, says a press release.
Although the government has decided to impose 24-hour jail for people not using foot over bridges, the authorities should realise that these bridges are not suitable for many senior citizens, women, children and people with disabilities.
Zebra crossings need to be brought back to ensure safe passage of the pedestrians, they said.
The organisers noted that nearly 60 percent of commuting in the city takes place on foot. However, privileges for pedestrians remain unconsidered when transportation plans and policies are formulated.
Dhaka is probably the only city in the world where there are no zebra crossings despite the huge number of pedestrians, they said, adding that pavements and pedestrian zones must be commutable and easily accessible.
Poba Programme Officer Toufiqur Rahman Sentu, Nirapad Development Foundation Chairman Ibnul Syed Rana and WBB Trust Project Coordinator Aminul Islam Sujon, among others, spoke at the programme.