Role of Traffic Police in Managing Traffic in Dhaka City: Challenges and The Ways Forward

Abstract

The most controversial issue for Bangladesh in the recent decade is traffic congestion in Dhaka city. The problem of the city dwellers suffer most is traffic congestion which kills a huge amount of time, severely affecting both the normalcy of life and the pace of the economy. Effective traffic management largely depends on traffic police personnel. This study explores the challenges of traffic police and recommends policy action to tackle them. This study employs a qualitative methodology consisting of in-depth interviews and field observations to understand the challenges faced by Dhaka City traffic police officers. The study used a purposive sampling technique. The data was collected from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected through the semi-structured interview method. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed line by before being subjected to thematic analysis. The study's findings reveal that traffic officials confront numerous obstacles, including health concerns, poor coordination, a lack of proper awareness of traffic rules among drivers and pedestrians, and inadequate training The study's findings would provide policymakers with essential guidelines for resolving traffic police concerns to protect the transportation system by controlling traffic.