PM reaffirms women-only bus service in Dhaka

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to launching a dedicated bus service for women in Dhaka within 180 days of assuming power, as part of its election pledges.

Tarique met with Prof Dr M Shamsul Hoque of the Civil Engineering Department at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) this morning to seek advice to this end, the prime minister’s press wing said.

During the meeting, the prime minister also sought advice on modernising the country’s transport sector and improving overall connectivity in Dhaka.

In the meeting at the Prime Minister's Office, the possibility of introducing train services in parts of Old Dhaka and other low-lying areas of the capital -- where bus services are currently inadequate -- was also considered.

Press wing officials further said the introduction of electric vehicles was discussed as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transport solution capable of serving a larger number of commuters, while discussions were also held on the potential for high-speed train services in the future, aimed at enhancing intercity connectivity and easing traffic congestion.