Over the past years, a number of various types of flyovers, including elevated expressway and U-loop, have changed the landscape of road communication in the capital. There is no denying that, besides alleviating Dhaka’s traffic congestion, these elevated facilities have given Dhaka a modern look. But there lies a disconcerting scenario beneath this development. Spaces under most of Dhaka’s flyovers are plagued by encroachment and pollution. What is more alarming is that some under-flyover spaces have become hotbeds of muggers and drug dealers.
According to a study report, about 207 acres of land are currently illegally occupied and misused under flyovers in Dhaka. Reportedly, various kinds of makeshift shops and parking lots have been set up under some of the flyovers. It is alleged that local influentials and traffic police are allowing them to do business in lieu of money. On the other hand, the under-spaces of some flyovers have become dumping grounds for waste material. However, it is perturbing to note that the city authorities have not done much, if not anything, about such blatant occupation of public spaces and illegal waste dumping underneath the flyovers.
The two city corporations are responsible for keeping the pavements free, the DMP for ensuring unhindered traffic circulation on the streets, and Rajuk for ensuring that parking spots are established in accordance with the rules. Not to mention, DMP and these civic bodies have failed to perform what they are entitled to.
The issue of illegal occupation of spaces and waste dumping underneath the flyovers has not been entirely overlooked by the administration. Rather, such illegal occupations are the consequence of negligence and a lack of proper planning. The city fathers have been reiterating that spaces beneath the flyovers would be reclaimed in phases to ensure smooth traffic and a healthy environment. However, we are yet to see any progress on their promises.
We need to devise strategic measures for the development of these lands. The two city corporations, Rajuk, police, and urban planning experts must work in concert to reclaim and clean the under-flyover spaces. Also, necessary steps should be taken to stop illegal waste dumping and mugging underneath the flyovers.