Metrorail's MRT-05 south project back on track

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Line-05 project finally resumes for implementation to build Dhaka city's south communications corridor from Gabtoli to Dasherkandi through Karwanbazar, ending speculations about rerouting or suspending another underground metrorail.
According to officials, a development project proposal (DPP) to this end will be sent to the Planning Commission soon to get its green light, after a thorough review of the foreign-aided megaproject.
Previously, a feasibility study, detailed design and cost revision of the major infrastructure project, among others, were done in time, they said.
"The MRT-05 South is matured than two other MRTs-02 and 04. Even its rerouting towards old Dhaka will take fresh time to start," says an official, who preferred not to be quoted by name, to dispel speculations.
Earlier, Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) planned to develop the 17.20-kilometre Gabtoli-Dasherkandi MRT-05 south corridor with financial support from the Asian Development Bank and South Korea.
However, the project drew widespread criticism for its highest-ever cost estimate at Tk 546.18 billion or $5.1 billion even after feasibility and design.

The DMTCL authorities sent the DPP to the Commission through the Road Transport and Highways Division in March 2024, which was sent back for cost revision.
Although the project office sent the DPP after cutting down Tk 60 billion following a revision at the end of June, its approval process came to a halt due to political turmoil that led to change of government.
After the installation of the interim government, the project faced criticism again regarding its high cost, as many suggested rerouting the corridor either towards old Dhaka or stopping the project to give way to MRT-02.
However, a fresh revision as per the DPP further pared down the estimated cost by 15 per cent or Tk 68.98 billion to stand at Tk 477.21 billion.
Project director Mohammad Abdul Wahab said, "There is no confusion about the need for the MRT-05 south passageway."
Following last month's ADB mission, according to him, the DPP was sent to the RTHD for taking necessary steps.
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