Home affairs adviser
Home Adviser blames illegal vehicles, street programmes for Dhaka’s traffic woes
Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam has pointed to illegal vehicles and frequent street programmes as key contributors to the severe traffic congestion plaguing Dhaka.
Speaking at the launch of Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s (DMP) traffic week at the Rajarbagh Police Lines on Monday, the adviser acknowledged that the government has struggled to provide sufficient public transport for citizens.
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He stressed that the lack of an organized traffic system is further complicated by the presence of numerous non-motorized vehicles, such as rickshaws and handcarts, which people rely on for their daily needs.
“This mix of motorized and non-motorized vehicles on the same roads makes it increasingly difficult to implement a well-organized traffic system in Dhaka,” he said.
Alam also noted that various public demands, such as street protests and gatherings, have disrupted road discipline, adding to the unbearable traffic congestion.
Reflecting on the broader traffic issues, the adviser cited a collapse in the traffic system nationwide following the fall of the previous fascist government. "Student activists played a key role in restoring some order on the roads," he said. "Since the formation of the current interim government, we’ve been working closely with police and civil society to address Dhaka's traffic challenges."
Alam revealed that the DMP's traffic division has begun taking legal action against illegal vehicles, though he admitted that significant improvements have yet to be realized.
He also mentioned that a research team is working on reactivating traffic signals, with both government and non-governmental organizations collaborating to ensure their operational status soon.
The adviser emphasized the shared responsibility of drivers, traffic police, and citizens in managing traffic congestion. "Solving this problem cannot be done by the government or police alone. We need the cooperation of city residents," he stated.
Alam announced that starting tomorrow, 300 students will join forces with traffic police to help manage congestion, with plans to increase their numbers gradually.
The event was chaired by DMP Commissioner Mainul Hasan, and attended by several notable figures, including Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant on Defense and National Cohesion Development Lt. Gen (retd) Abdul Hafiz, Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md. Moinul Islam.
1 month ago
Home Affairs Adviser assures Buddhist Federation of full support for holding events
Home Affairs Adviser, Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, has assured that the Buddhist Federation will receive all necessary assistance to ensure their events are held in a peaceful and joyful environment.
He made this commitment during a discussion today with leaders of the Buddhist Federation at the Ministry of Home Affairs.
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Following the meeting, the adviser spoke to journalists, emphasizing the government’s dedication to providing comprehensive support. “We have assured the leaders of the Buddhist Federation that they will be able to organize their event in a joyous atmosphere. Whatever form of cooperation they need, we will provide,” said the adviser.
Addressing concerns about security, especially in the Hill Tracts, he said that while the issue of the hill districts was not specifically discussed, there is no reason for concern. "Anyone attempting to breach security will face appropriate action," he warned.
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In the same discussion, the Home Affairs Adviser also commented on the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations. After visiting Gazipur to observe the festivities, he noted the positive atmosphere and expressed hope that the celebrations would continue smoothly. “If any issues arise, we will be informed and will take necessary steps to address them,” he added.
The Adviser to the Buddhist Federation, Sukumar Barua, acknowledged the cooperation from the Home Ministry, saying that they had sought support to ensure a peaceful and successful event. "There is always some concern about security, and this year is no exception. We have requested assistance to hold our event safely and beautifully," he said.
1 month ago
‘Legal action only after investigation,’ Home Affairs Adviser says about cases filed
Legal action will only be taken if individuals are found guilty following an investigation, Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. Mohammad Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (retd.) said on Saturday.
He said that the process for filing cases has changed.
"In the past, police would file cases, name 10 individuals, and add another anonymous 50," he said. "Now, it is the general public who are filing cases. And just because a case is filed, it does not mean there will be an immediate arrest. There will be an investigation first, and only if someone is found guilty will legal action be taken."
The adviser made these remarks after inaugurating the "Scout Shaheed Mir Mugdho Building" and the entrance gate of the Armed Police Battalion School and College, dedicated to Shaheed Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdho. Mugdho was a founding member and unit leader of the APBN Scout Group and lost his life during the mass uprising.
"Those who sacrificed their lives in this movement are all martyrs," the adviser said. "Not just Mugdho, but all who were martyred deserve our prayers and recognition."
He added that the government would provide medical treatment for those injured in the movement. "If necessary, they will be sent abroad for advanced treatment, or doctors will be brought from abroad. Based on doctors' recommendations, arrangements will be made for their proper care."
Commenting on law enforcement, Chowdhury noted that several officials and leaders from the previous government fled between August 5 and 7. "To prevent further escapes, we have reinforced border security," he said. "It is now difficult for them to flee. Even if they try, it is not just the police and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) who are apprehending them—ordinary citizens are also turning them in."
The adviser also urged journalists to assist law enforcement by providing vital information through investigative journalism to help capture criminals.
1 month ago