Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the launch of a dedicated bus service for women in Dhaka to enhance safety and ensure more comfortable travel.
The directive was issued on Monday during a meeting at the Secretariat with Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam, according to the Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister reviewed the overall state of the country's road transport sector and provided policy guidance.
He emphasized the need for a people-friendly, efficient, and safe transport network, particularly for women, drawing on his observations of London's transport system during his time abroad.
Transport expert and BUET professor Shamsul Haque, who attended the meeting, said a 180-day action plan has been prioritized to restore discipline in bus operations and launch an appealing, safe, and specialized bus service for women.
The plan also considers the recruitment of female drivers to operate the buses.
The roadmap includes introducing electric buses to gradually replace diesel-powered vehicles, reducing pollution and building a modern, future-ready public transport network.
Authorities also plan zone-based pilot programs to maximize passenger coverage efficiently while integrating metro rail, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and conventional buses.
The feasibility of light rail and monorail systems is being explored to serve densely populated and unplanned areas such as Basabo, Goran, Madartek, and Old Dhaka, which remain underserved despite the operational metro rail.
Discussions also included the potential introduction of high-speed trains to improve connectivity between Dhaka and other regions, including Chattogram, supporting urban decentralization.
A detailed study report will be prepared based on the discussions, with swift implementation planned for projects deemed feasible.
Separately, the Prime Minister instructed the Housing and Public Works Adviser to complete renovation and development work at the mausoleum of former President Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar before Eid, reflecting the government's commitment to both infrastructure and heritage.
