Traffic policemen in Dhaka are grappling with the daunting task of regulating traffic and ensuring pedestrian safety as the city faces severe waterlogging due to heavy rainfall. The downpour, which began overnight and intensified in the morning, has left thoroughfares throughout Dhaka submerged, making traffic management particularly challenging.
Extraordinary Efforts by Traffic Police
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) spokeswoman Arifa Akhtar Prity, an assistant police commissioner, highlighted the relentless efforts of traffic policemen. "Ignoring the adverse conditions, traffic policemen are relentlessly performing their duties to keep traffic movement normal," she said. The police are making extra efforts to reduce people’s sufferings in the waterlogged streets and to manage the increased traffic congestion caused by the heavy rains.
Personnel Shortages and Extended Shifts
DMP officials noted that approximately 4,500 policemen serve across eight traffic divisions, operating in 8-hour shifts. However, personnel shortages require these officers to work extended hours, especially during peak times or extraordinary situations like the current heavy rainfall.
Record Rainfall in Dhaka
The meteorological office recorded 82 mm of rainfall in just six hours between 6:00 AM and 12:00 midday, with an additional 97 mm recorded in the previous 24 hours ending at 6 AM. Although this is substantial, it falls short of the record high of 341 mm recorded in a 24-hour period in mid-September 2009.
Significance and Implications
The current situation underscores the challenges faced by Dhaka's traffic management system during extreme weather conditions. Effective traffic regulation not only ensures smoother movement but also enhances pedestrian safety, which is critical in a city prone to flooding. The efforts of the traffic police are vital in mitigating the adverse effects of such weather events on urban mobility.
