The month of Ramadan has begun and so have the woes of office-going commuters. With millions of people fasting during the day, traffic congestion is at an all-time high as people rush to get home before breaking their fast. This annual phenomenon is not only a source of frustration and inconvenience for the people of Dhaka, but it also has a significant impact on the productivity of the city's workforce.

What can help? Perhaps a tried-and-tested model of hybrid or remote working. 

The idea of hybrid working, which combines remote work and in-person work, gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. It allows employees to work from home on certain days and come into the office on others. This flexibility can help employees better manage their schedules during Ramadan when they may need to adjust their working hours to accommodate their religious practices.

Workplaces in Dhaka that can afford it, should consider adopting remote or hybrid working to avoid the loss of productive hours that occur during the traffic jams in Ramadan. Not only would this increase productivity, but it would also give employees a much-needed break from the exhaustion that comes with commuting in the city's infamous traffic. Even without Ramadan, it is estimated that the city loses over 4 million work hours daily due to traffic. Hybrid working can help reduce the number of employees on the roads during peak traffic hours, leading to fewer traffic jams and shorter commute times. This not only benefits employees but also helps companies save on transportation costs.

For employees who are fasting during Ramadan, remote or hybrid working can provide much-needed relief from the physical and mental exhaustion that can result from commuting during the heat and humidity of the day. Fasting can be a challenging experience, and the additional stress of commuting in heavy traffic can take a toll on both the body and the mind. By allowing employees to work from home or a remote location, organizations can help to alleviate some of this stress and promote a healthier and more productive workforce.

For companies, hybrid working can improve employee productivity and morale, which can ultimately benefit the bottom line. By reducing commute time, employees can spend more time on work-related tasks, resulting in increased productivity. Furthermore, a more flexible work schedule can lead to improved employee morale, job satisfaction, and retention.

Studies have shown that remote or hybrid working can significantly improve productivity and can lead to increased focus and concentration, which in turn can lead to higher-quality work and increased productivity. Additionally, remote working can also save time, as employees can avoid long commutes to and from work. This saved time can be used to focus on work-related tasks or to engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise or spending time with family and friends.

Another benefit of remote or hybrid working during Ramadan is the ability to promote a more flexible work-life balance. Many employees have family and religious obligations that they need to attend to during this holy month, and remote or hybrid working can provide the flexibility needed to balance work and personal commitments. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and higher levels of employee engagement, both of which can have a positive impact on the overall productivity and success of the organisation.

Of course, remote or hybrid working is not without its challenges. Organisations will need to ensure that they have the necessary infrastructure in place to support remote working, including secure technology and communication channels. Additionally, managers will need to be trained on how to effectively manage remote teams and ensure that their employees are engaged and productive. However, these challenges can be overcome with proper planning and training, and the benefits of remote or hybrid working during Ramadan make it a worthwhile investment for organisations in Dhaka.