Traffic congestion has intensified on both sides of the Babubazar Bridge over the Buriganga River in Keraniganj as vehicles traveling to and from Dhaka are being rerouted to this bridge due to the ongoing renovation of the Postogola Bridge until 8 March.
In response to the increased flow of long-distance vehicles on Babubazar Bridge, authorities have restricted the movement of rickshaws, vans, autorickshaws, and three-wheelers on the bridge.
However, these restrictions have left local small traders in distress.
Al Amin, a van driver who regularly transports chickens from Kaptan Bazar to Chunkutia intersection via Babubazar Bridge, expressed concern that his inability to cross the bridge in time will lead to the death of all chickens.
Autorickshaw driver Bachchu Mia said he could enter Dhaka from Keraniganj in the morning, but now he is unable to return.
“I was barred from embarking on the bridge despite repeated requests to the traffic police,” said Bachchu Mia.
He also complained that he did not know that autorickshaws were restricted from using the bridge.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic) at Kotwali Zone Piyush Kumar Dey said they have been working to reduce the traffic congestion since morning.
He said additional traffic measures have been implemented on both sides of the Babubazar Bridge due to the ongoing renovation of the Postogola Bridge.
Earlier, on 18 February, the traffic division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police held a meeting at its headquarters to discuss traffic management strategies in preparation for the closure of the Postogola Bridge. The DMP traffic division suggested alternative routes after the meeting.
