Risk to Pedestrians' Lives Due to Lack of Foot Overbridge at Lal Khan Bazar, Urgent Action Needed

Writer: A.N.M. Tajwar Alam Translated by: Shamiul Akram

Chittagong Bureau    |    ০৭:২২ পিএম, ২০২৫-০১-২১

Risk to Pedestrians' Lives Due to Lack of Foot Overbridge at Lal Khan Bazar, Urgent Action Needed

A.N.M. Tajwar Alam

Lal Khan Bazar intersection, located in the heart of Chittagong city, serves as a central hub for thousands of people daily. As a junction of seven major roads, countless vehicles and pedestrians pass through this area every day. One notable feature is the connection to Akhtaruzzaman Chowdhury Flyover, linking various areas. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, the most pressing issue is the lack of a safe pedestrian crossing. The absence of a foot overbridge at this busy intersection has led to frequent accidents, traffic congestion, and an increasing risk to pedestrians' lives.

Daily Hazards for Pedestrians

The situation for pedestrians at Lal Khan Bazar is increasingly alarming. Children, the elderly, and ordinary people alike face significant dangers crossing the road every day. Many pedestrians, in their attempts to cross, often find themselves in dangerous situations. The area, home to educational institutions, markets, and residential areas, sees a high volume of people at all times, but crossing the road remains a huge challenge. Due to the high speed of vehicles, crossing from one side to the other has become an unrealistic challenge. Pedestrians frequently fall victim to accidents because of the fast-moving traffic. Without a foot overbridge, many are forced to risk their lives in an attempt to cross the road.

One local resident stated, "It’s scary to cross here every day. The vehicles are speeding so much that it's hard to predict when an accident might occur. If there was a foot overbridge, this problem would be much reduced." Similarly, a mother of a school-going child said, "Our children are afraid to go to school. If the City Corporation takes quick action, many lives can be saved."

Accidents and Traffic Congestion

Furthermore, the lack of a foot overbridge at Lal Khan Bazar has not only endangered pedestrians’ lives but also exacerbated the traffic congestion. During peak hours, the speed of vehicles slows down due to pedestrians attempting to cross, causing significant traffic jams. This creates inconvenience for other passengers traveling to different locations. As pedestrians force vehicles to slow down, traffic congestion increases, making the transportation system even more complicated.

Experts believe that the construction of a foot overbridge at Lal Khan Bazar will solve many issues. It will not only help prevent accidents but also reduce traffic congestion. Experts further state, "If a foot overbridge is constructed as soon as possible, it will ensure pedestrian safety and help maintain smooth vehicle flow."

Immediate Action Needed

Local residents have long been demanding the construction of a foot overbridge. They argue that immediate action from the City Corporation and Chittagong Development Authority is necessary. The residents also claim that if the project is implemented promptly, it will not only prevent accidents but also alleviate the traffic congestion. Furthermore, pedestrians will be able to cross the road safely, making public life safer and smoother.

An official from Chittagong City Corporation or Chittagong Development Authority said, "The project for constructing a foot overbridge at Lal Khan Bazar is under planning, and work will begin soon." However, local residents disagree, stating that the necessary steps have been delayed and urging the City authorities to expedite the implementation of the project.

Alternative Measures and Improvements

Experts suggest that, in addition to constructing a foot overbridge, if some changes are made to the road transport system, it will become more effective. Increasing road safety measures and providing clear directions for crossing will help reduce the accident rate. While a foot overbridge would offer a safer route for pedestrians, modernizing the road safety system will benefit both pedestrians and vehicle traffic.

The lack of a foot overbridge at Lal Khan Bazar has placed pedestrians in constant danger and worsened the traffic congestion. However, if this issue is addressed promptly, the city’s traffic system could improve, and the quality of life for citizens could significantly improve. Local residents are calling for immediate action from the City authorities to resolve the situation.