The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a public warning urging individuals and organisations to immediately remove all construction materials stored on roads and pavements across the capital, stating that failure to comply will result in legal action and enforcement operations.
According to an official public notice signed by the Acting Commissioner of Police, Mohammad Sarwar, authorities have observed a growing trend of construction materials and related goods being placed indiscriminately on public roads and footpaths by both private and government entities. This practice, the notice states, is contributing significantly to traffic congestion and obstructing pedestrian movement in several parts of Dhaka.
Planned Enforcement Drive
The DMP has confirmed that special enforcement drives, including mobile court operations, will soon be launched across the city. These operations will be conducted jointly by the traffic division and executive magistrates to ensure compliance with existing laws regulating the use of public spaces.
Officials indicated that the campaign will focus on clearing illegal storage of materials such as sand, bricks, rods, cement, scaffolding equipment, and other construction-related items from roadways and pedestrian pathways.
Legal Basis for Action
The notice emphasised that the practice constitutes a clear violation of multiple legal provisions, including:
| Legal Framework |
Relevant Sections |
Nature of Violation |
| DMP Ordinance, 1976 |
Sections 67, 68, 72, 102 |
Obstruction of public space and traffic flow |
| Road Transport Act, 2018 |
Sections 37, 82 |
Illegal occupation of roads and pedestrian pathways |
Authorities noted that continued non-compliance would result in punitive measures under these laws, including fines and possible confiscation of materials.
Impact on Urban Mobility
The police highlighted that the unauthorised occupation of roads and footpaths has become a persistent urban challenge in Dhaka. Such encroachments not only slow down vehicular movement but also force pedestrians onto busy roads, increasing the risk of accidents and further worsening traffic conditions.
Officials stressed that the issue is particularly acute in densely populated commercial and residential areas, where ongoing construction activities often spill over into public spaces without proper safety arrangements.
Call for Public Cooperation
In its statement, the DMP urged all citizens, construction companies, and institutions to comply with the directive and promptly remove any materials stored on roads or pavements. The police further requested cooperation from stakeholders to help restore order and ensure safe and uninterrupted movement for both vehicles and pedestrians.
The notice also called for collective responsibility in maintaining discipline in the capital, emphasising that sustainable urban management requires active participation from both authorities and the public.
Upcoming Monitoring Measures
Law enforcement officials indicated that monitoring teams will be deployed across key areas of Dhaka to identify violations. Surprise inspections are expected to form part of the enforcement strategy, with immediate penalties imposed where necessary.
The DMP reiterated its commitment to improving traffic flow and pedestrian safety, stating that strict enforcement of existing laws will continue as part of broader efforts to manage the city’s growing infrastructural and mobility challenges.
Outlook
With rapid urban development and ongoing construction activity across Dhaka, authorities believe stricter regulation of roadside practices is essential. The upcoming enforcement campaign signals a more assertive approach by law enforcement aimed at reducing congestion, improving safety, and ensuring more efficient use of the capital’s limited public space.
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