Would odd-even formula work in Dhaka?
I was recently having a conversation with a friend who lives in Delhi. I asked him how Delhi’s odd-even rule-which restricts cars to alternate days based on whether they carry odd or even-numbered licence plates-was working out. He told me that the plan has been shelved as it prompted people to buy more cars instead of helping to reduce traffic congestion. For the same reason, I don’t think the odd-even plan will work here in Dhaka.
Parking is already a problem for us and if everyone just bought more cars to use every alternate day, the problem will get worse. Dhaka’s roads have been narrowed down by the illegally set up roadside shops, dumping of garbage and haphazard parking especially by buses and trucks. In such a situation, reintroduction of comfortable public transportation can be a good idea.
Aminur Rahim
Dhaka
