Minister for Shipping, Road Transport and Bridges, and Railways Sheikh Rabiul Alam has stated that under no circumstances will temporary shops be allowed on newly constructed foot overbridges or in their vicinity as it disrupts pedestrian movement and causes traffic congestion.
He said the matter will be regulated in a planned manner, and after Eid, an acceptable decision will be reached through discussions with concerned parties.
He made these remarks on Saturday, at the inauguration ceremony of the New Market foot overbridge in the capital.
Sheikh Rabiul Alam said, “The foot overbridge has been constructed in a wide and modern manner. Therefore, setting up temporary shops like on footpaths, whether on the bridge, underneath, or in the surrounding areas, will not be acceptable under any circumstances. Regulating this is essential to ensure orderly pedestrian movement.”
He informed that after Eid, the administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), market owners, footpath vendors, and local individuals will determine a method through discussion so that everyone benefits without anyone being harmed, and everyone is encouraged to accept the decisions.
Sheikh Rabiul Alam stated that due to the presence of around 31 markets in one of Dhaka city’s busiest shopping areas, people have long suffered while crossing the road. Considering this, DSCC has constructed the foot-overbridge.
He expressed hope that with Eid approaching, there will be a huge presence of shoppers in the area, and this bridge will play a positive role in ensuring safe pedestrian movement.
He said the opening of this bridge will allow people to cross the road comfortably and easily access various markets. This will bring order to business and commerce and reduce the risk of accidents.
Sheikh Rabiul Alam further stated that after Eid, undesirable obstacles in front of the shopping complexes in the area will be removed to establish an orderly environment, ensuring uninterrupted pedestrian movement and business activities.
At the inaugural ceremony, he said the best use of the bridge for public welfare will be ensured. At the same time, initiatives will be taken to quickly repair any foot overbridges that are still not suitable for use.
DSCC Administrator Abdus Salam was also present at the time.
