Big changes coming to public transport in the capital, inactive bus routes to be canceled

These decisions were made at a recent exchange meeting of the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA). According to those concerned, about 60 effective bus routes are sufficient for Dhaka. Therefore, unnecessary and inactive routes will be canceled and new route arrangements will be made.

According to the plan, the start and end points of bus routes will be fixed outside the city center to reduce traffic congestion. In addition, recommendations have been made to build new bus terminals, depots, and adequate parking facilities.

Moreover, an initiative will be taken to quickly remove over a thousand unfit buses from the roads. After the new routes are finalized, it will be determined which company will operate which route. Each route will have only one operator, and the number of buses will also be determined as needed.

Those concerned have said that permission for bus movement will be granted only after verifying fitness certificates, route permits, and other necessary documents.

Regarding this, Dr. Md. Hadiuzzaman, professor of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and transport expert, said, "There is no alternative to bus route rationalization to bring order to the capital's public transport system. However, to make it successful, political will, well-planned preparation, and an effective business model must be ensured."

He further said, "The government can determine operational costs and assign the responsibility of operating specific routes to operators through tenders. At the same time, buses must strictly follow the prescribed routes, stops, schedules, and speed limits."