Photo: Messenger
The Tejgaon Traffic Department of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has at long last succeeded in stopping the operation of illegal CNG-run vehicles and outdated microbuses in the capital’s Hatirjheel area.
Previously, these hazardous vehicles were notorious for traversing the region, often operating in exchange of substantial amounts of money. The areas of Rampura and Karwanbazar in the capital were particularly affected, causing traffic congestion along one side of the road leading to Petrobangla. Moreover, these vehicles were not only contributing to traffic issues but also tarnishing the scenic beauty of Hatirjheel. The recent intervention by the Tejgaon Traffic Department has put a stop to the movement of such unauthorised vehicles, providing relief to the local traffic situation and preserving the aesthetics of Hatirjheel.
Indeed, on one hand, the decision taken by the traffic police was applauded by the officials responsible for Hatirjheel's protection as well as from the general public. The proactive measure to halt the movement of illegal CNG vehicles and expired micros has been well-received by the community.
It has come to light that the micros and illegal CNG vehicles operating in Hatirjheel of the capital were generating a significant daily income, amounting to over 40 lakhs a month. These unauthorised vehicles had established illegal stands in front of Karwanbazar Petrobangla and on the Rampura-Hatirjheel road for their operations. This route became a hub for their activities, resulting in continuous complaints about the degradation of Hatirjheel's beauty.
The management of these stands was allegedly overseen by activists from the Jatiya Sramik League Tejgaon police. The key coordinator for these operations to eradicate illegal vehicles is Deputy Police Commissioner Md. Mostak Ahmed. Under his directions and continuous efforts, Tejgaon traffic police finally become able to stood up against those illegal vehicles.
The recent publication of this news in The Daily Messenger and other media outlets has reportedly shocked the authorities concerned.
In response to the publicised information, the Tejgaon traffic police swiftly initiated an operation on the 15th to clear the area of these unauthorised vehicles. Over the last three days, a notable achievement was made with the removal and impoundment of 10 cars found in violation. The proactive measures taken by the authorities have effectively put a halt to the operations of these illegal vehicles.
Waheed Khan, an official from a private organisation in Karwanbazar, who operates on the affected route, expressed his appreciation for the actions taken by the traffic police in an interview with The Daily Messenger. He mentioned that the efforts of the traffic police are commendable and should have been implemented earlier.
According to Khan, there had been a makeshift stand established on the road in the Rampura area, leading to occasional conflicts and disruptions. This stand caused delays for cars entering Hatirjheel through Molla Tower, creating congestion issues. The potential for a more significant traffic jam in front of Petrobangla was averted due to the recent intervention by the traffic police.
While acknowledging that some individuals may be facing temporary inconveniences while moving through Hatirjheel, Khan expressed confidence that with time, any initial difficulties would dissipate, and people would adapt to the changes. Overall, he viewed the actions taken by the traffic police as a positive and necessary initiative for the greater benefit of the community.
Mobarak Hossain, the Director (Development Control) of the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkho, acknowledged the positive steps taken by the traffic police in halting the operation of vehicles that were affecting the beauty of Hatirjheel. In an interview with The Daily Messenger, Hossain expressed gratitude to the traffic police for their efforts.
He further emphasised the commitment of the Capital Development Authority to the protection and maintenance of Hatirjheel. Hossain stated that if such unauthorised vehicles were to reappear in the future, the authority would take direct action to address the issue.
Assistant Police Commissioner of Tejgaon Traffic Division, Snehasish Sarkar told The Daily Messenger, “It has been continued through many years, we are on hardline to stop all illegal vehicles to maintain hundred percent traffic discipline on road.”
Sarkar reported that within the last two days, 15 cars have been impounded as part of their efforts to enforce the order along with filing 76 cases. Of these, 52 on CNG and 24 micro related cases have been filed. The police are actively arresting these vehicles on sight, and stringent instructions have been issued to other officials to ensure compliance with these measures.
Messenger/Sun Yath
