Bangladesh Plans 180-Day Public Transport Transformation with Electric Buses
The government of Bangladesh is set to transform the capital city’s public transport system using electric buses under a 180-day action plan, aimed at bringing rapid and visible improvements. On Monday, 2 March, Professor and communications expert Shamsul Haque of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) shared this information following a meeting with Prime Minister Tareq Rahman at the Bangladesh Secretariat.
Shamsul Haque stated that Prime Minister Tareq Rahman has shown interest in exploring the feasibility of light rail and monorail systems to expand public transport in densely populated and unplanned areas. Almost eight to nine months ago, the Prime Minister himself expressed interest in reforming the public transport sector after observing London’s transport system during his extended stay there and recognizing the need for an efficient, people-friendly transport network in Bangladesh. Ensuring safe and comfortable travel for women remains a particular focus.
He explained that although the Dhaka Metro Rail is operational, many congested and unplanned areas in the city’s west and east still lack adequate public transport. Areas such as Basabo, Goran, Madartek, and Old Dhaka, despite housing large populations, often do not have consistent bus services. Therefore, discussions have focused on creating an integrated system combining light rail, monorail, bus route franchises, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and conventional buses.
Answering questions from journalists after the meeting, Professor Shamsul Haque said the primary goal of the initial phase will be to streamline public transport and introduce safe and attractive bus services for women. Plans are being considered to deploy women-only buses, with female drivers employed to operate them.
He further noted that the 180-day plan prioritizes the gradual introduction of electric buses to replace diesel-powered buses, aiming to reduce pollution and establish a future-ready transport system. Projects that can be implemented in the short term will be given priority.
Shamsul Haque added that zonal pilot programs will be initiated to restore order in the bus system, ensuring maximum coverage with minimal investment and integrating complementary transport modes with the Metro Rail.
He also mentioned that while the six Metro Rail routes cover major roads, densely populated areas beyond these routes require supplementary systems. Accordingly, a survey will be conducted to propose solutions, with initiatives expected to begin within the current year. The government is keen on taking swift action to develop an integrated, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly public transport network.
DBTech/SH/EK/OR
