Dhaka's urban transport system is set for a major shake-up as the Dhaka Metropolitan Passenger and Goods Transport Committee (RTC) cancels 94 active bus routes. The move also affects 42 routes previously designed under the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority's (DTCA) bus route rationalisation project.
In response, DTCA has started drafting plans for 44 new bus routes in coordination with the Dhaka Road Transport Owners' Association. The RTC has approved the initiative, with the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) also providing logistical support.
Transport specialists say the restructuring aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve commuter convenience, and streamline city roads, but caution that poor implementation could worsen commuter hardship. "If coordination between DTCA and bus owners is inadequate, passengers may face longer travel times and higher fares," said Dr. Shamsul Haque, Director of the Accident Research Institute at BUET.
Multiple bus line overlaps could increase conflict among drivers, create congestion hotspots, and reduce operational efficiency for transport companies
Preliminary analysis of 29 proposed routes reveals significant overlapping segments, where multiple bus lines would share the same road. Such overlaps could increase conflict among drivers, create congestion hotspots, and reduce operational efficiency for transport companies. The proposed 44-route network includes major corridors connecting Chandra, Demra, Uttara, Gazipur, Savar, and central Dhaka. For example: Route 1: Chandra Nandan Park to Demra Bridge via Abdullahpur, Kuril, Badda, Malibagh, and Jatrabari, with two alternative alignments through Kachpur or other junctions. Route 2: Also from Chandra Nandan Park to Demra Bridge, traversing Kuril Vishwaroad, Banani, Mohakhali, Moghbazar, and Gulistan. Route 3-4: Covering Uttara to Sadarghat and Dhaka University to Ghatarchor, though these involve complex detours that some bus owners resist. Routes 5-29: Stretch from Gazipur, Konabari, Dhakeshwari Temple, and Bashila across Dhaka, integrating key commercial and residential areas. Several routes, including Route 9 and 10, face objections from owners due to length or logistical difficulties.
Officials indicate that new alignments are designed to balance bus flow across main roads and residential streets, aiming to mitigate congestion and enhance commuter safety.
Past RTC approvals sparked controversy, as authorities issued route permits without verifying bus availability, fitness certificates, or operational feasibility. Many owners reportedly deployed buses beyond approved limits, worsening congestion.
"Some operators even run unfit buses on approved routes for profit, risking commuter safety," noted Professor Haque.
DTCA Deputy Transport Planner, Dhrubo Alam, told Daily Observer, "Our initial drafts cover 29 routes; 10-15 more are under review. We aim to reduce route overlaps and gradually cut the total number of bus routes. The city doesn't need as many as before."
Daily commuters express concern over travel time, fare changes, and route familiarity. One passenger said, "Cancellation of old routes creates uncertainty. Authorities must communicate clearly to prevent disruption."
Experts emphasize that route rationalization is part of a broader urban transport policy, not just a numerical change. Effective implementation requires: Removal of unfit buses from streets, limiting each route to a single company or cooperative, streamlined circular routes for major corridors, similar to the Hatirjheel loop service.
Professor Shamsul Haque stressed, "Without clear franchise management and enforcement, even a well-planned route network will fail."
If executed properly, the overhaul could enhance road safety, reduce congestion, and improve commuter experience, particularly along high-density corridors. Officials highlight the importance of DTCA-Road Transport Owners' Association coordination to prevent operational overlaps and ensure smoother traffic flow.
