The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), also known as the Metro Rail, is a national infrastructural project undertaken by the current government in June 2016 with the primary objective of providing a congestion-free mode of transportation to the citizens. Stretching from Kamalapur to Uttara Diyabari, it includes stops at key locations such as Dhaka University, Karwan Bazaar, Bijoy Sarani, and Mirpur, among others, within the capital.
The perpetual gridlock on Dhaka's roads consumes commuters' valuable time each day, leaving them frustrated and fatigued. This prolonged time spent in traffic prevents individuals from prioritising their health, leading to sedentary lifestyles compounded by excessive work stress, which in turn increases the likelihood of health issues such as obesity, hypertension, and burnout.
The Metro Rail significantly reduces travel time, thereby conserving people's energy and enhancing productivity in the workplace. With reduced commuting hours, individuals are better able to focus on their professional or academic responsibilities. Moreover, the time saved can be allocated to personal activities such as exercise, quality family time, or pursuing entrepreneurial endeavours. By offering a faster and more comfortable mode of commuting, the Metro Rail empowers the driving forces of the economy.
For instance, a trip from Bangladesh Secretariat to Mirpur-10 via the metro costs Tk. 60, whereas covering the same distance by personal vehicle would require approximately 1.5 litters of fuel, priced at Tk. 126 per litter for octane, not to mention the additional fuel wasted in traffic. Thus, the metro proves to be a more economical option compared to personal vehicles or other modes of public transport. Commuters can allocate the saved funds to improve various aspects of their lives, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Additionally, the efficient commute service enables individuals residing on the outskirts of Dhaka to reach the capital in a timely manner for work, eliminating the need for relocation to Dhaka solely for employment purposes, which would otherwise incur higher living expenses and necessitate separation from their families.
Operating throughout the day, the Metro Rail currently conducts approximately 178 trips, facilitating congestion-free transportation for residents across Dhaka city, from one end to the other.
Affan Abrar Amin
Diploma/CertHe in Common Law
University of London
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