I think the collision was removed because of not only the market wards but also the seemingly small step up and downs that had to be walked all the way around in the field.

It was because of this poor programming that led to some players wanting jump added to be able to traverse these small hurdles. Obviously jump couldn't be implemented right away so the decision to completely remove collision came about.

Unfortunately we are now left in a stale world with improper physics, being able to instantly go up a 5-6 foot cliff may be faster and more convenient, but at what price? It just adds to the lifelessness of the world that players' are complaining about.

Conclusion: we are our own worst enemies