Building a Metro Rapid Transit Line Between Dhaka and Tokyo: A Futile Pursuit?

No one will ride them except in the suburbs of their cities.

Despite the advances in metro rapid transit, the feasibility of connecting cities as far apart as Dhaka and Tokyo with such a line remains questionable. The primary challenge lies not in the technology, but in the operational and logistical complexities involved.

The limitations of metro rapid transit

No matter how fast you speed up a train, it is difficult to go faster than an airplane. The metro trains that should be used in such places are not the typical commuter or regional trains, but those that offer a more comfortable and expedient travel experience.

The journey between two major metropolitan areas such as Dhaka and Tokyo involves not only speed but also the complexities of border crossings. Any proposal to build a metro rapid transit line across national borders would require elaborate border crossing procedures, making it more time-consuming and potentially less convenient than the existing transport options.

The necessity of border crossing procedures

To get on a train that may cross the border, you will likely have to adhere to a more complicated process than you would for domestic travel. This means undergoing daily border crossing procedures, which are designed for non-border usage. The process would be extensive and time-consuming, involving security checks, customs formalities, and documentation requirements, making it a daunting task for most travelers.

The lack of practical utility

Only railroad enthusiasts might find such a hassle worth the effort, and even then, the thrill would be fleeting. After riding the train once, it is unlikely that regular passengers would return due to the inconvenience. Given this, the utility of such a train is highly questionable, and it's difficult to see how it would become a viable mode of transport for the general public.

Efforts to connect Dhaka and Tokyo with a metro rapid transit line would be a colossal waste of resources. The infrastructure required for such a project would be immense, and the maintenance costs would be substantial. If politicians were not so shortsighted, they would recognize the futility of such ventures and prioritize more practical and sustainable modes of transportation.

Conclusion

The challenges associated with building a metro rapid transit line between Dhaka and Tokyo are manifold. These include the need for extensive border crossing procedures, the impracticality of such a journey for the average traveler, and the lack of immediate utility for the intended passengers.

Therefore, it is crucial for policymakers and transportation planners to carefully consider the Dhaka-Tokyo connection before investing in such a project. Instead, efforts should be directed towards enhancing existing transport systems, improving infrastructure, and focusing on projects that genuinely benefit the public.