For nearly a week, Dhaka's streets have been without the usual traffic police. In their place, students have stepped up to manage traffic across the city, earning praise from the public. Among those helping the students is actor Ilias Kanchan, who is also the chairman of the road safety organization Nirapad Sarak Chai (NISCHA).
Kanchan has praised the students for their dedication and discipline in handling traffic. He believes their efforts set a good example for the future. "I have seen that none of the students are sitting idle," Kanchan said. "They are on the streets to ensure public safety, and they are taking their tasks seriously. Everyone should appreciate and respect their work."
He also pointed out that while traffic problems are common, even when the police are present, the streets have been orderly under the students' supervision. This has strengthened his belief in the students' potential as future leaders of NISCHA.
"I have also noticed that drivers are following the students' instructions out of respect," Kanchan added. "When the people who enforce rules are respected, others are more likely to follow the rules. However, when corruption is involved, respect is lost."
Kanchan suggested that this initiative by the students should continue for at least two to five years to create lasting discipline and safer roads. He believes that with time, people will naturally follow traffic rules.
In the meantime, Kanchan himself joined the students in controlling traffic. NISCHA has announced its support for the students' efforts during this time of national crisis and is running similar traffic management programs through its branches across the country.
