Dhaka: The Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) is preparing to commence the procurement process for 340 new single decker CNG-powered air-conditioned buses soon. This project aims to mitigate the transportation crisis within Dhaka city and across the country while promoting eco-friendly transportation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the initiative, officially titled “Procurement of CNG Single Decker AC Buses for BRTC,” involves a total project cost of approximately Tk 1,133.46 crore. Funding is derived from two key sources, the Government of Bangladesh (GoB), contributing Tk 304.83 crore, and a loan from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) of South Korea, covering Tk 828.63 crore.
BRTC officials anticipate that an international tender will be called within one month, with the entire procurement scheduled for completion by December 2027. Talking to BSS, Sheik Moinuddin, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, mentioned the government is strongly focusing on environment friendly transportation across the country. He noted that while there is a current focus on e-buses and developing the necessary infrastructure, the immediate plan is the procurement of these eco-friendly CNG buses.
Moinuddin also highlighted that the current outdated BRTC buses will be replaced with these 340 new buses, ensuring reliable and comfortable public transport for both city and intercity routes. BRTC Chairman Abdul Latif Mollah stated the procurement project is being implemented through financial contributions from two key sources, GoB and the South Korean EDCF fund. Various documents and proposals related to the procurement are awaiting approval from the Korean Exim Bank, after which the tender will be called.
Mollah further explained that out of the 340 new buses, 140 will operate within Dhaka city while the remaining 200 buses will run inter-city. The project aligns with the government’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG-11.2, which aims for safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transportation systems. The addition of these luxury, environmentally friendly buses aims to improve the quality of public transportation for passengers, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.