Habibur Rahman, Tangail Correspondent : The increasing traffic pressure on Madhupur’s roads, due to both long-distance and local vehicles, has long been a concern for commuters. Vehicles from northern Bengal and various districts pass through this town, connecting areas such as Anaras Chattar to Tangail, Jamalpur, and Mymensingh. While traffic slightly eases at night, congestion begins early in the morning, often worsening when movement slows for any reason. Locals report that traffic jams quickly form along Tangail Road from Malouri to Kollol Cinema on the Mymensingh route and along Jamalpur Road up to Noyapara Hospital.

Residents note that pedestrians often use the drainage areas along the roads due to narrow footpaths. People from nearby upazilas regularly travel through Madhupur for shopping, business, and medical needs, making the town increasingly busy.

To alleviate traffic congestion and prevent illegal encroachments, the local administration has been operating mobile courts. Following this initiative, on Monday, August 25, Madhupur Upazila Executive Officer Zubayer Hossain conducted a mobile court targeting footpath encroachment. Two traders were fined 5,000 BDT each, totaling 10,000 BDT, for setting up shops on footpaths and obstructing pedestrian movement.

Locals highlighted that areas around Anaras Chattar, the market area, Sathir Mor, and the daily bazaar are frequently congested, affecting both residents and passengers of long-distance vehicles. The administration has continued awareness campaigns, including loudspeaker announcements, to ensure smooth pedestrian movement.

Several pedestrians pointed out that temporary tea stalls and open food shops along the footpaths are causing inconvenience.

Upazila Executive Officer Zubayer Hossain stated, “Two traders have been fined for obstructing pedestrian pathways by setting up shops on footpaths. Such public-interest operations will continue. Legal action will also be taken against those damaging footpath tiles.”

He added that previous awareness campaigns through public announcements in Madhupur Municipality had urged business owners not to encroach on footpaths and block pedestrian access.