Government advances modern, sustainable, technology-driven national transport infrastructure.
The government is working to develop a safe, modern, technology-driven and environmentally sustainable road network in the country.
In was reflected in the budget speech of the finance minister in the parliament yesterday when he said, “Integrated development activities under the Bridges Division are being further strengthened to enhance the country’s integrated communication system.”
The minister proposed a allocation of Taka 2,908 crore for Bridges Division which translated government’s firm commitment to put in place a smooth and uninterrupted road communication across the country.
At present implementation of as many as 106 development projects are going on to develop national and regional highways, upgrade key economic corridors to four lanes, enhance the efficiency of the freight transportation system and strengthen axle load control and road safety.
He said activities under the Bangladesh Road Safety Project, based on the “Safe System Approach” to accident prevention, have been resumed.
The minister highlighted the government’s various action plans to establish an integrated, modern and sustainable road and public transport system.
Initiatives have been undertaken to enact the Metropolitan Transport Authority Act, introduce metro rail-based feeder services and adopt transit-oriented development plans. In addition, prepare technical manuals, promote use of electric vehicles, introduce an automated fitness certification system and provide training for nearly 5,50,000 professional drivers is underway, the minister told the house.
Initiatives have been undertaken to increase investment in the bridge and expressway sector, construct the Second Jamuna Bridge, implement the Dhaka-Chattogram Elevated Expressway and undertake projects under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements, the minister said.
He said the government has adopted short, medium and long-term plans for the development of the transport sector to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Amir khosru said, transparency and efficiency in public transportation are being enhanced through expansion of integrated ticketing systems, Rapid Pass services and online platforms.
A strong metro rail network comprising six MRT lines is being developed. Following the launch of MRT Line-6, the government is advancing construction of MRT Line-1 and MRT Line-5 (Northern Route). At the same time, planning activities for MRT Line-5 (Southern Route), MRT Line-2 and MRT Line-4 are progressing, he added.
“Initiatives will also be undertaken to gradually replace ageing buses in Dhaka with electric buses. Furthermore, the development of women-friendly and safe transportation systems will help enhance women’s participation in economic activities,” the finance minister said.
Moreover, electric metro rail and bus systems will contribute to reducing air and noise pollution. Once implemented, these initiatives will establish an integrated, safe and future-oriented urban transport network and further strengthen connectivity between Dhaka and its surrounding regions.
Besides, initiatives have been taken to develop a multimodal transport system integrating road, rail, water and air transport, alongside use of smart technologies for axle load control and establishment of new control stations.
