Dhaka Metropolitan Police commissioner Md Sajjad Ali announced plans to arm traffic sergeants with small arms to combat rising incidents of mugging in the capital.
He said this in response to a reporter鈥檚 queries during the inauguration of the 鈥楥ounter and E-Ticketing System for Buses in Dhaka Metropolitan Area鈥�, organised by the Road Transport Owners鈥� Association at Azampur of Uttara in the city on Thursday.
Addressing the city鈥檚 ongoing traffic issues, the commissioner emphasised the importance of collective efforts to alleviate congestion and enforce order on the roads. 鈥業t is not enough for only drivers and transport workers to adhere to the rules. Passengers and the general public must also cooperate sincerely.鈥�
Special guests at the event included additional police commissioner (traffic) Md Sarwar and general secretary of the Bangladesh Road Transport Workers鈥� Federation Humayun Kabir Khan. The event was presided over by Md Saiful Islam, general secretary of Dhaka Road Transport Owners鈥� Association, with association president MA Baten also in attendance.
Regarding the new counter and e-ticketing system, the DMP chief stated that it aimed to restore order on the roads by ensuring passengers board and disembark only at designated stops.
He assured full support from the DMP to ensure the success of the initiative.
鈥楧haka is the home to nearly 25 million people and faces numerous challenges. Despite these obstacles, we must work towards improving living conditions for all. We are committed to making sure Dhaka residents can live comfortably,鈥� he added.
The commissioner also highlighted the importance of accessible police stations free from harassment.
鈥業f anyone encounters trouble while filing a case or general diary, we are bringing police services to their doorstep. Should any police personnel harass you, inform us, and we will take strict action鈥�, he added.
He urged transport sector leaders to ensure that drivers received appointment letters and regular monthly salaries.