The Evolution of Public Transportation in Bangladesh: Why No Metro System in the Capital?

As of August 2023, Bangladesh, particularly the capital city of Dhaka, is well into the process of developing a comprehensive metro transit system. However, this development has not been without challenges and historical factors that have contributed to its long-standing absence. This article explores the reasons behind the lack of metro transit in Bangladesh and the recent developments.

Rapid Urbanization and Traffic Congestion

Dhaka, like many rapidly growing cities in the developing world, has faced an explosion of urban population and subsequent challenges in infrastructure development. Rapid urbanization has led to significant traffic congestion, straining the existing transportation infrastructure. The pace of growth has often outstripped the planning and development of public transit systems, leaving residents with inadequate alternatives.

Economic Constraints

The development of a metro system is a massive undertaking that requires substantial financial investment. As a developing country, Bangladesh has faced budgetary constraints and competing priorities for infrastructure development. These economic limitations have hindered the implementation of large-scale transit projects, including the metro system.

Planning and Implementation Challenges

Developing and constructing a metro system is riddled with complex challenges. These include bureaucratic processes, land acquisition issues, and the need for extensive coordination among various government agencies. These logistical and administrative hurdles have further delayed the implementation of the metro system.

Political Factors

Political instability and changes in government have also impacted the long-term development of infrastructure projects. These shifts in political focus can lead to delays and changes in priorities, which can ultimately impede the progress of major construction projects like the metro system.

Public Transportation Alternatives

Historically, residents of Dhaka have relied on a mix of buses, rickshaws, and other inadequate forms of transportation. These alternatives, while limited, have been the primary means of transit for many people. The lack of swift and efficient public transportation options has led to a reliance on private vehicles, exacerbating traffic congestion and air pollution.

Recent Developments

As of 2023, progress has been made towards establishing a formal metro system. The Dhaka Metro Rail project has been underway for some time, with the first line expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion and improve public transit options. This marks a significant shift towards the development of a comprehensive metro system. However, challenges remain, including funding, planning, and public acceptance.

The concept of a mass transit system in Bangladesh, particularly in Dhaka, was initially out of the early planners' conceptualization. They did not expect the city to become as densely populated as it is today, with over 30 million people commuting daily as early as 2016.

The first mention of a metro system in Dhaka was during a period in 2007 when the then caretaker government invited specialists and professionals from the country to discuss the possibilities. However, the idea of an underground transit system was kept out due to concerns about flooding.

The Sheikh Hasina government took up the metro project later and assigned responsibilities to a Japanese organization in 2012. In 2016, a tragic terrorist attack in Dhaka led to the loss of nine Japanese engineers working on the project. Despite this setback, the metro project continued. By 2019-20, the first phase of the system was anticipated to be open to the public.

In conclusion, while Bangladesh has lacked a metro transit system for many years due to economic, political, and logistical challenges, significant efforts are now underway to establish one, with a particular focus on the capital city of Dhaka.