Dhaka s Elevated Expressway Partially Opens Easing Traffic Congestion

Dhaka, Bangladesh – A significant portion of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway officially opened to traffic on Saturday, marking a key step in the city’s ongoing efforts to alleviate crippling congestion. The 11.7-kilometer stretch, running from the Shahjalal International Airport to the Kutubkhali intersection, is expected to drastically reduce travel time for commuters traveling between these key locations.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, who highlighted the project's importance in modernizing Dhaka's infrastructure and boosting economic activity. He stated that the expressway represents a substantial investment in improving the quality of life for city residents and facilitating smoother transportation of goods.

Traffic police officials report a noticeable decrease in congestion on the ground-level roads parallel to the elevated expressway during peak hours. While the full impact will be assessed over the coming weeks, initial observations suggest a positive effect on traffic flow along the busy Kuril-Jamuna Future Park corridor. Motorcyclists and three-wheelers are currently restricted from using the expressway for safety reasons.

The project, initially conceived over a decade ago, faced numerous delays due to land acquisition challenges, funding constraints, and logistical complexities. Construction was undertaken by the Italian-Thai Development Corporation Limited under a public-private partnership agreement with the Bangladesh Bridge Authority. The total cost of the project is estimated at approximately 110 billion taka (approximately $1.04 billion USD).

However, concerns remain regarding the affordability of using the expressway. Toll rates, which vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled, have drawn criticism from some commuters who argue they are too high for daily use. The Bangladesh Bridge Authority maintains that the toll revenue is necessary to cover maintenance costs and ensure the expressway's long-term sustainability.

Beyond Dhaka, Bangladesh is preparing for the upcoming monsoon season. The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) has announced that preparations are underway to manage potential flooding and protect vulnerable communities. River embankments are being reinforced, and drainage systems are being cleared to ensure efficient water runoff. Authorities are also closely monitoring water levels in major rivers, including the Jamuna and Padma, to anticipate potential flood risks.

Internationally, the ongoing conflict in Sudan continues to raise humanitarian concerns. The United Nations reports that millions of Sudanese citizens are facing acute food insecurity and displacement. Several countries, including Bangladesh, have pledged support for humanitarian aid efforts. Bangladesh has expressed its commitment to providing assistance through international organizations, focusing on providing essential supplies and medical care to those affected by the conflict. The situation remains volatile, and the UN is urging all parties to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians.