Dhaka Traffic Remains Challenged Despite Infrastructure Projects

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Commuters in Dhaka continue to face significant traffic congestion despite ongoing infrastructure developments aimed at easing movement within the city. Recent reports indicate that average commute times remain high, particularly during peak hours, impacting productivity and daily life for millions of residents.

The Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA) acknowledges the persistent challenges, attributing them to a combination of factors including a rapidly growing population, an increasing number of private vehicles, and ongoing construction work related to the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and elevated expressway projects. While these projects promise long-term improvements, they currently contribute to short-term disruptions.

Data collected from various sources, including Google Maps and local traffic monitoring apps, shows that key arterial roads like the Dhaka-Aricha Highway, the Mirpur Road, and the Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue experience particularly severe congestion during the morning and evening rush hours. Travel times on these routes can easily double or triple compared to off-peak periods. The airport road also experiences frequent bottlenecks, impacting travel to and from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

Several large-scale infrastructure projects are currently underway. The first phase of the MRT Line 6, already operational, has provided some relief to commuters traveling along its route. However, construction for subsequent phases, along with the Dhaka Elevated Expressway and other road widening projects, necessitates lane closures and diversions, exacerbating existing congestion. Authorities have attempted to mitigate these disruptions through public announcements and alternative route suggestions, but effectiveness varies.

Experts point to the need for a more integrated approach to urban planning and transportation management. Dr. Ahsan Habib, a professor of transport at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), emphasizes the importance of prioritizing public transportation. “While infrastructure development is crucial, it must be complemented by a robust and affordable public transport system that encourages people to shift away from private vehicles,” he stated. “Investment in bus rapid transit (BRT) systems, improved train services, and a well-maintained ferry network are all essential.”

Beyond infrastructure, issues such as inadequate traffic enforcement, poorly maintained roads, and a lack of pedestrian facilities also contribute to the problem. Illegal parking and the prevalence of rickshaws and other slow-moving vehicles on main roads further impede traffic flow. The DTCA has recently launched campaigns to address illegal parking, but sustained enforcement is required to achieve significant results.

Internationally, cities like Singapore and Hong Kong have successfully tackled traffic congestion through a combination of strategies including congestion pricing, efficient public transport, and strict vehicle ownership regulations. While replicating these models in Dhaka presents unique challenges due to socio-economic factors, lessons can be learned from their experiences. Congestion pricing, a system where drivers pay a fee to enter congested areas, has been proposed by some experts as a potential solution for Dhaka, but it remains a controversial idea.

Looking ahead, the DTCA plans to complete several key infrastructure projects within the next few years. The completion of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway is expected to significantly ease traffic on the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway. However, officials acknowledge that a comprehensive and long-term solution requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses not only infrastructure but also urban planning, public transportation, and traffic management.