Sujon in the driving seat!

It is an unusual scene for port city dwellers to see a city administrator scooter through the city, instead of trveling in a motorcades with police protocol.

So when they saw newly-appointed Chattogram City Corporation administrator Khorshed Alam Sujon on a scooter, rolling through the city learning of the urban difficulties of the citizens, they were elated.

The administrator's efforts include taking firsthand note of city dwellers' woes -- such as their struggles with dilapidated roads, littering, clogged canals etc. -- and sometimes providing instant remedies.

Habib Ullah, a grocer of Agrabad Excess Road, told The Daily Star, "I did not believe when I first saw him pull over near my shop."

"People all of a sudden gathered around him and started placing their complaints," Habib added. "Sujon heard them out and ordered city corporation officials to take note and provide quick solutions."

Sujon kicked off his city-wide scooter ride on August 24 from Bahaddarhat with plans to visit every ward.

Talking to this correspondent, Sujon said he had noticed moving with protocol negatively affects his connection to the people, who tend to feel uncomfortable faced with such an entourage.

"That's why I decided to move on my scooter, without any protocol, so that people can connect with me easily and convey their needs, sufferings, and suggestions," he said. "After assuming office, I have encountered numerous problems. This made me adopt a pragmatic outlook," he said.

"No one can afford to sit still if they want to resolve the problems of this city. I got just 180 days, so I don't know how far I can go, but I can guarantee I will give my best," Sujon assured.

Sujon plans to visit the wards without any prior notice so that he can see the real picture.

Sujon, also the vice-president of Awami League's city unit, said it won't be possible to roam around on the bike every day but he will try to do so at least twice a week.