By Abu Hena Rasel (Dhaka Bureau)
Dhaka, one of the most densely populated cities in the world, has long been synonymous with unbearable traffic congestion and a chaotic public transport system. However, the Bangladesh government has embarked on an ambitious and integrated roadmap to transform this familiar landscape. The goal is not merely to expand roads, but to modernize the entire urban transport network, making it eco-friendly and gender-sensitive.
Moving beyond traditional reforms, Dhaka now dreams of evolving from a ‘car-dependent city’ into a ‘people-centric urban center’.
Gender Equality and Safety: Special Bus Services for Women
Safety for women in Dhaka’s public transport has always been a major concern. To address this, the government plans to launch women-only bus services on specific routes. A unique feature of this initiative is the recruitment of women as both drivers and assistants. This will not only make commuting safer but also ensure employment and empowerment for women in the transport sector.
Modernization: Franchise Buses and Designated Stoppages
To end the unhealthy competition between buses and erratic passenger boarding, a ‘Bus Route Rationalization’ or franchise model is being introduced. Under this system:
* Buses of the same color will operate under specific companies.
* A systematic salary structure for transport workers will be established.
* Stopping buses anywhere other than designated stands will be prohibited, restoring discipline to the streets.
Environment and the Future: Electric Buses and Bicycle Sharing
In response to climate change and energy crises, Dhaka is entering the era of ‘Green Transport’. Plans are underway to introduce electric school buses and electric public transport to reduce pollution.
Additionally, a bicycle-sharing network is being developed to ensure ‘last-mile connectivity’ with Metro Rail stations. Experimental projects for cycle lanes and stands have already begun in residential areas like Uttara, which is expected to revolutionize short-distance commuting.
New Horizons in the Sky: Monorail After Metro Rail
Following the remarkable success of the elevated and underground Metro Rail, the ‘Monorail’ has now come into focus. In the narrow or congested areas of Old Dhaka where large-scale infrastructure is difficult to build, a monorail operating on a single beam will be the perfect solution. Its lightweight infrastructure will open new doors for rapid transit in high-density areas.
Challenges and Possibilities
Transport experts believe that Dhaka needs an ‘integrated network’ where buses, trains, bicycles, and monorails complement one another. However, the primary challenge remains implementation, as many grand plans in the past remained confined to paper.
Analysis suggests that if this roadmap is realized, Dhaka will not only become a functional city but will also emerge as one of the most modern and livable megacities in South Asia. The 20 million residents of the capital now wait to see how quickly these beautiful plans on paper translate into wheels on the asphalt.
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The Author:
Abu Hena Rasel: Senior journalist and Contributor, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
