Successful policy implementation in a country Where it seldom happens: The ban on two-stroke engine vehicles in Dhaka

Abstract

Successful implementation of policy is very low in Bangladesh, but the ban on two-stroke engine vehicles in Dhaka was an exception. The ban involved large-scale changes as well as a high-goal consensus. It secured support from all quarters, including three categories of stakeholders who had to suffer its consequences-vehicle owners, vehicle drivers, some 13,000 strong, who wielded significant political clout, and commuters who used these vehicles as taxis to move about in the city. Several actors and factors played a vital role in making the implementation of the policy a successful one. Public interest litigation, political will, support of opposition parties, role of the media, and commitment of implementing agencies, were all important, but it was political will and government efforts to mobilise support that were critical.