Dhaka:The government has announced plans to introduce two monorail corridors in the city by 2030, with detailed designs currently being developed by consultants following a completed pre-feasibility study.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the proposed monorail systems aim to enhance the capital's public transport network by providing an environmentally friendly and efficient mode of transportation, especially in high-demand areas. Additional Executive Director of the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA), Dr. Md Moshiur Rahman, highlighted that these corridors will connect with existing and planned metro rail and other public transport services to improve last-mile connectivity.
The Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) consultants have completed the pre-feasibility study, with designs expected to be finalized within the stipulated period. The selection of the final two corridors will be based on comprehensive technical, economic, and environmental assessments, including passenger demand, potential benefits, and financial viability. The DTCA has conducted traffic-modelling surveys across the capital to evaluate passenger demand, and these findings have been shared with BUET consultants for further analysis.
An agreement titled "Consultancy Service for Pre-Feasibility Study of Monorail Alignment Integration with Mass Transit Networks in Dhaka Metropolitan Region" was signed by the DTCA to explore the prospects of introducing the monorail system. The Bureau of Research, Testing and Consultation (BRTC) of BUET conducted the pre-feasibility study, and experts are currently preparing detailed designs, expected to be submitted within six months.
The government allocated Tk 7.57 crore from its revenue budget for the pre-feasibility study and detailed designs. Under the Updated Revised Strategic Transport Plan, five monorail corridors spanning approximately 79.4 kilometres have been proposed, with a preferred corridor expected to be selected within three months. The five initial proposed corridors include Airport-Bashundhara via Purbachal and Jolshiri, Middle Badda-Bhulta, Rampura-Demra, Mohammadpur-Postogola, and Airport-Savar via Uttara Centre.
The study will assess route alignments, potential station and depot locations, technical and structural suitability, and economic viability. Monorails, typically operating on elevated structures, are being considered for their potential to provide transport links in densely populated parts of Dhaka, where conventional mass rapid transit systems face challenges due to limited road space. The initiative aligns with the government's pledge to introduce monorail services in Dhaka to improve urban mobility and alleviate traffic congestion.