Dhaka:The government of Bangladesh has unveiled a comprehensive plan to revamp Dhaka's transport system with a series of short-, medium-, and long-term initiatives aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving public transport safety and reliability.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the initiatives, guided by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, include introducing pink buses for women, expanding electric bus services, and enhancing connectivity with metro rail. The government is also exploring the feasibility of monorail services and developing policies for sustainable urban transport.
The efforts are focused on reducing the reliance on private vehicles and making public transport safer and more environmentally sustainable. Dhaka, being the country's administrative and economic hub, faces challenges such as severe traffic congestion, unregulated bus operations, and rising air pollution. These issues have prompted the government to implement an integrated approach, including bus route rationalisation, designated stops, and digital monitoring.
State Minister for Road Transport and Highways Habibur Rashid emphasized that the introduction of pink buses is a significant step towards safer travel for women. Additionally, the government is working on strengthening monitoring and complaint resolution mechanisms to enhance women's security in public transport.
Efforts to expand electric bus operations are also underway, with plans to develop charging facilities at bus depots and terminals. As part of long-term strategies, the government is considering the introduction of monorail services in key areas, subject to feasibility assessments.
Experts, including Professor Dr M Shamsul Hoque from BUET, stress the importance of effective coordination among relevant agencies to restore discipline in Dhaka's transport system. Consistent implementation and accountability are deemed crucial to achieving the government's objectives of transforming Dhaka into a modern and sustainable transport hub.