Japanese consultants for metro rail yet to be replaced

Japanese consultants are yet to be replaced for the feasibility study of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) project for metro rail lines 1 and 5. The project is currently at a standstill, due to progress in the feasibility study not being made. On July 10, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) did reassure the government, through an official letter, that they will send experts to continue conducting the metro rail feasibility study within seven days. The Bangladesh government has appreciated Jica’s decision, which was made after the deadly terror attack at a Dhaka cafe on July 1, where victims included seven Japanese nationals, most of whom were visiting Bangladesh as metro rail consultants. Road Transport and Highways division secretary MAN Siddique said “The recruitment of Japanese consultants for replacing the seven, who were killed by the militant attack at Holey Artsan bakery, is under process. It might require more time to ensure consultants fulfill all necessary criteria.” “But it has been confirmed that we will able to continue the work at Dhaka’s metro rail project without further interruption,” he told the Dhaka Tribune. After the Dhaka restaurant tragedy, Japan has assured the Bangladesh government that Japanese development agencies, such as Jica, will continue to provide development support to its long-time friend, Bangladesh.