Reception creates traffic mess

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina smilingly holds a crest which says, “The Father of the Nation gave us the land, you the sea; he brought us freedom, and we dream through thee.” Jubo Sangram Parishad organised a grand reception yesterday for Bangladesh's maritime victory. Photo: SK Enamul Haq

Many city commuters yesterday experienced untold sufferings due to traffic jam in parts of the city thanks to Jubo League's programme to accord a mass reception to the prime minister on her 'conquering the Bay'.
Vehicles on the roads around Bangabandhu National Stadium remained almost stuck under the scorching sun causing sufferings to the passengers as many small and long processions were moving towards the venue.
Paltan, Gulistan, Motijheel and Fakirapool areas witnessed severe traffic congestion.
Activists of Jubo League, the ruling Awami League's youth wing, and other organisations from across the city started thronging to the venue in processions and on vehicles from 11:00am yesterday creating tailbacks on different other city roads.
Many people, particularly those heading towards Sadarghat to catch launch, had no option but to walk on foot with their luggage as the roads stretching from Paltan to Gulistan were made off limit to vehicles and rickshaws from noon until evening.
Mohammad Elias, aged around 15, was found in Muktangan area almost dragging two bags as he was walking to Sadarghat from the Paltan Intersection. Hailing from Bakerganj of Barisal, Elias came to visit the residence of his elder brother at Moghbazar.
"I found it really difficult to carry my baggage after police bared the rickshaw carrying me at Paltan crossing," he told The Daily Star.
Due to the traffic congestion, it took more time than usual to reach destination.
"Generally, it takes an hour to reach my office at Karwan Bazar from Dhaka Judge's Court in old part of the city, but today it took me more than two hours," a lawyer who worked at a newspaper office said. "I felt almost sick due to sultry heat," he added.