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๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฉ Bangladesh /Energy & Infrastructure

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From Daily Star · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • Bangladesh's Transport Minister stated that new regulations are being drafted to control three-wheelers and similar vehicles on highways.
  • The minister confirmed that 49,97,090 motorcycles are registered in the country, with applications open for unregistered ones.
  • Plans are underway for MRT Line-2 in Narayanganj and feasibility studies for MRT Line-4, while toll collection is ongoing for 67 bridges.

Transport Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam informed parliament that despite a High Court ban, vehicles like auto-rickshaws, battery-operated rickshaws, and three-wheelers continue to operate on highways. He announced that joint operations by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), highway police, and district administrations are underway to address this issue.

Responding to a question about regulating these vehicles, the minister said policies are being formulated. These measures will include mandatory registration, driver licensing, strict route management, and enforcement under the Road Transport Act, 2018. He also noted that 49,97,090 motorcycles are registered in Bangladesh, and owners of unregistered motorcycles can apply for registration with proper documentation.

Regarding infrastructure projects, the minister confirmed Narayanganj's inclusion in the alignment of MRT Line-2, a 30.40 km route from Gabtoli through Dhaka to Narayanganj. The proposal is with the Planning Commission for development partner exploration. Additionally, South Korea's Exim Bank has studied the feasibility of MRT Line-4, a 16 km route from Kamalapur to Madanpur in Narayanganj, featuring elevated and underground sections.

The minister also stated that 67 bridges across the country currently collect tolls, which serve as a revenue source. While toll collection has been suspended on nine bridges since August 5, 2024, two have resumed operations, and seven remain toll-free. The Second Jamuna Bridge project, a major election commitment, is planned for completion by 2033, with consultants being appointed for feasibility studies. The exact construction route will depend on these study outcomes.

Finally, concerning online ticketing, the minister revealed that suspicious activities have led to the blocking of 7,810 accounts over the past three months. The current contract with Shohoz-Synesis-Vincen-JV for ticketing services expires on March 24 next year.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Daily Star. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.