Time to declare Dhaka traffic a world heritage?

What is our most enduring, unchangeable, and universally recognised phenomenon? Some might argue it's our rich culture, hospitality, or cricket fandom. But the real answer is something far more powerful— Dhaka's legendary traffic congestion!

Given its permanence and cultural significance, shouldn't it be time to seek global recognition? Shouldn't we declare Dhaka's traffic a World Heritage?

After all, it meets all the criteria—it is historically significant, deeply ingrained in our way of life, deviates from all the existing traffic rules worldwide—a masterpiece of human creative genius, and, most importantly, impossible to improve.

Sites must have outstanding universal value to be included on the World Heritage List. And what could be more valuable than turning a 20-minute commute into a 3-hour life lesson on patience and despair? Dhaka's traffic isn't just congestion; it's a lifetime experience, a reminder that time is relative—especially when you're stuck at Bijoy Sharani.

Foreigners are often amused by the delightful chaos that we call traffic. Picture this: rickshaws, Bangla Teslas, autorickshaws, private cars, buses, and pedestrians all competing for space on the same narrow road— a chaotic ballet of survival, where mutual determination meets a complete disregard for the rules of the road. Who needs red traffic lights anyway? Every trip feels like an audition for "Survivor: City Edition."

Unlike most aspects of life, Dhaka's traffic treats everyone equally. It does not discriminate based on social status or profession. Whether you're a CEO in a luxury SUV, a student in a cramped, pink-coloured bus, or a Bangla Tesla driver just trying to make it through the day— everyone suffers together. Even VIP motorcades, despite police escorts and sirens, often find themselves helpless in the gridlock. When the streets are this congested, not even power can break free. If this is not democracy, then what is?

Economists argue that traffic congestion costs Bangladesh billions in lost productivity. But they fail to acknowledge the hidden benefits.

Our street economy is thriving. Vendors selling peanuts, flowers, stickers, and water have established successful businesses that take advantage of long traffic jams. Can you imagine the unemployment crisis we would face if we ever fixed the roads? It would be an added blow to the crisis with the shutdown of Beximco factories.

The other day, my teammate Ramisa, who lives four kilometres from work, dozed off in the office transport. After a good, refreshing nap, she found herself just a few meters from the office. Many professionals now turn their commutes into self-care sessions, indulging in deep thoughts, audiobooks, or existential crises. Who needs fancy wellness retreats when the bustling streets of Dhaka provide the perfect backdrop for a mid-journey soul search? Perfectly efficient!

This traffic chaos is also an anti-speeding solution. You will see more accidents on traffic-free roads, like 300 feet. This chaotic traffic will help Dhaka eliminate high-speed accidents by ensuring no vehicle can exceed 10 km/h. Safety first!

If we want Dhaka's traffic to be declared a World Heritage Site, we must ensure proper preservation efforts, and so far, we are on the right track.

To preserve the authentic chaotic charm, efforts to reduce congestion, such as improving public transport or widening roads, should be prohibited. We could even transform honking into musical sessions, creating a new tradition. Most importantly, we must allow people to continue crossing roads confidently, raising their palms to oncoming vehicles like superheroes.

The Bangladesh Tourism Board can capitalise on this opportunity by inviting tourists to participate in special packages that offer a unique experience of Dhaka's signature traffic experience. Tourists can spend five hours stuck in a motionless bus while enjoying live roadside entertainment and picturesque views.

Some sceptics may argue that traffic congestion is a problem that needs to be solved. But why waste time on unrealistic dreams like smooth traffic flow when we can embrace what we are already good at? Rather than fighting it, we should celebrate it and brand it as a globally recognised attraction.

Denmark's Copenhagen is known to be the cleanest city on the planet. India's Mumbai is known as the city of dreams. Dhaka has its own unique marvel: the eternal traffic jam. The "City of Traffic" tests patience and turns daily commutes into epic stories. Isn't it time for the world to recognise this unique heritage? Nothing says "heritage" like a deadlock that could rival rush hour in any major city!

But let's be honest—if we continue to bend the rules for those who protest against basic traffic discipline, we might not even need to lobby UNESCO. They could declare Dhaka's traffic a World Heritage Site, recognising it as a living monument to human stubbornness. If our traffic laws are outdated, let's fix them. If enforcement is weak, let's strengthen it. But allowing lawlessness to become the norm? That would be like putting up a 'Welcome' sign for chaos.

Ultimately, we have two choices: either build a city where movement is efficient and fair or accept our fate as the only metropolis where 'rush hour' is a 24/7 reality. The clock is ticking, but none of us are moving anytime soon.

Shafiq R Bhuiyan is a storyteller who examines the intersection of social progress, effective communication, cultural development, and corporate social responsibility while sharing insights to inspire change. 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.