Urban planners, architects, and transport experts have strongly criticized the decision to abolish the designated bus lanes of the Dhaka-Gazipur Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, urging authorities to reconsider. The experts expressed deep concern over the move, which comes after infrastructure worth approximately Tk 2,800 crore was constructed, yet no buses were procured and services never commenced.

Demands Raised at Press Conference

The demands were made at a press conference titled 'We Want Implementation of Dhaka-Gazipur BRT' held on Wednesday at the Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah Hall of the National Press Club in Dhaka. The event was jointly organized by the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), the Institute of Architects Bangladesh, Work for a Better Bangladesh Trust, and the Gazipur Heritage Preservation Council.

The experts stated that if there are errors or irregularities in the project, the individuals concerned must be held accountable. They firmly asserted that it is not justified to cancel the project by placing the blame on the BRT system itself. They recommended identifying and rectifying the technical and administrative flaws to preserve this crucial public transport initiative.

Significance of the Project

The experts consider the BRT project vital for alleviating traffic congestion on the Dhaka-Gazipur corridor and ensuring fast, safe public transportation. They believe the project can be operationalized by utilizing the already-built infrastructure, which involved substantial public expenditure. A strong call has been made to the relevant authorities to review the decision and proceed with the project's implementation.