Politics
Dhaka Transport Plan Updates Centre on Low-Cost Bus and Light Rail Options
Dhaka residents may see changes to daily commuting through expanded bus services and measures aimed at pedestrians and cyclists under updates to the Revised Strategic Transport Plan.
How we reported this
The new BNP government is likely to adopt a strategic transport policy for Dhaka centred on low-cost bus and light rail-based public transport. This approach shifts focus from previous mega-projects that failed to cover marginal commuters. The Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority is updating the Revised Strategic Transport Plan to incorporate the BNP manifesto. The update prioritises pedestrians, cyclists and sustainable transport modes alongside major infrastructure for 2035-2045.
These changes come as authorities prepare the Updating Revised Strategic Transport Plan prepared by the Asian Development Bank in March 2025. That document focuses on pedestrian and cyclist safety. It recommends dedicated slow-speed lanes for bicycles and rickshaws. The policy adjustments directly affect how residents move around the city for work, school and daily errands.
Bus sector reforms under way
DTCA is moving ahead with comprehensive bus sector reforms. These include dedicated bus priority lanes, the introduction of 400 electric buses under the World Bank-funded Dhaka Bus Modernisation Programme, and full-scale Rapid Pass digital payments. Residents who rely on buses for affordable travel may encounter new priority lanes and electronic payment systems on city routes. The 400 electric buses form part of the programme designed to modernise the fleet.
Traffic management measures
The government has initiated major traffic management reforms in March 2026. These include automating 120 traffic signals, relocating five inter-district bus terminals outside the city, and installing GPS tracking for city buses. Commuters who travel between districts may find terminals moved to new locations. City bus users could see GPS tracking introduced on their services and more automated signals at intersections.
The measures are expected to affect daily travel patterns for people living in neighbourhoods that depend on buses and informal transport. Relocation of terminals and new priority lanes are projected to alter access points for inter-district and local journeys. DTCA continues to implement the bus reforms and traffic changes outlined in the current plans.