Dhaka Correspondent:

The empty spaces under the metro rail, which stand alongside the busiest roads in the capital, are becoming temporary shelters for helpless and uprooted people. From slum families to daily wage laborers, they take shelter there during the day. Many have started living here to escape the sun and rain and feel safe.

However, the peaceful atmosphere of the day takes on a different look as soon as night falls. Locals complain that criminals become active in these areas as soon as darkness falls. Criminal activities such as drug use, robbery and extortion are carried out openly. In the dark of night, these empty spaces become a den of criminals.

Pedestrians said that walking under the metro rail at night is always scary. Many have been victims of robbery. Local businessmen are also worried about this. They say that the situation could become more dire if police patrols are not increased.

The common people of the capital hope that measures will soon be taken to use these places in a planned manner, so that it is possible to stand by the helpless and get rid of the den of criminals.