Md. Tanzim Hossain, Chattogram

The traffic congestion and disorder on Chattogram’s roads have been increasing at an alarming rate. Despite some initiatives by the Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) to restore order on the roads, residents report little overall improvement in the city’s traffic woes.

According to CMP sources, a total of 3,711 cases were filed last month against violators of traffic laws. As part of the crackdown, fines totaling BDT 12.61 million were collected, and 4,436 unfit and unauthorized vehicles were seized. The South Traffic Division saw the highest number of cases with 1,329, incurring fines of BDT 3.45 million. The North Traffic Division, however, led in fines and vehicle seizures.

City residents attribute the congestion to unauthorized vehicles, unfit transports, unlicensed rickshaws and motorcycles, as well as the unchecked operation of CNG-run auto-rickshaws and tempos. Many allege that these unauthorized vehicles operate under the protection of influential individuals. The police and local authorities have faced complaints regarding their handling of unauthorized and unlicensed vehicles.

Meanwhile, the regular digging by the City Corporation, WASA and Chattogram Development Authority, along with the storage of construction materials on roads, has compounded the city’s traffic crisis, severely hindering the smooth flow of vehicles and intensifying congestion.

Residents note that illegal parking, reckless driving on major roads, and the unrestricted movement of CNG-run and battery-operated rickshaws on smaller streets are primary causes of traffic jams. While traffic police are visibly present on major roads, their absence in the alleys allows unauthorized vehicles to proliferate in these areas.

A frustrated commuter, Md. Abir, shared, “Last Sunday, it took me an hour and forty minutes to travel from Agrabad to Bahaddarhat—a journey that normally takes just 30 to 40 minutes.” The unrestricted parking and operation of unauthorized vehicles are causing substantial time and financial losses for the public.

Kazi Md. Tarek Aziz, Additional Deputy Commissioner of CMP, stated, “We are taking strict measures against vehicles that are unlicensed, lack route permits, or are unfit. Last month, nearly 3,711 cases were filed against such vehicles. Many seized vehicles include rural CNGs and battery-operated rickshaws, but despite enforcement, they continue to operate actively in minor roads.”

Despite CMP’s efforts, a sustainable plan to address the core issues remains absent, preventing any meaningful improvement in Chattogram’s traffic. The lack of coordination among various city agencies and inconsistencies in development work are disrupting the daily lives of residents.