Dhaka’s metro rail, hailed as Bangladesh’s first modern urban communication system, is significantly transforming the city’s public transport dynamics, creating both challenges and opportunities for various modes of transportation.
Since the initiation of metro rail operations on the Uttara-Motijheel route, buses on corresponding routes have witnessed a decline in passengers, affecting their profitability.
The ripple effect extends to CNG-powered autorickshaws and motorcycle ride-sharing services, which also grapple with a reduced number of passengers.
However, the traditional rickshaw is experiencing a surge in demand, particularly for rides to and from metro stations.
Rickshawpullers express their satisfaction with the increased demand, noting that passengers are utilizing rickshaws to reach metro stations, enhancing their overall business.
A rickshaw driver noted: “We would not have got enough passengers if the metro had not been inaugurated. Passengers come to the station by rickshaws. At stations like Motijheel, Press Club, Shahbagh, people go by rickshaws and catch the train.”
Conversely, drivers of ride-sharing services, autorickshaws, and buses highlight the adverse impact of the metro rail on their businesses.
Ride-sharing drivers complain of reduced trips, longer waiting times, and decreased earnings.
Autorickshaw drivers report a significant drop in passengers, especially from areas like Motijheel, Shahbagh and Karwan Bazar.
Bus owners face financial losses due to declining passenger numbers, with buses operating from Mirpur to Gulistan and Motijheel being particularly affected.
The efficiency of the metro rail service, offering a swift and reliable commute in the face of Dhaka’s notorious traffic congestion, has contributed to its growing popularity.
Commuters cite timely arrivals, avoidance of traffic jams, reduced accident risks, and the appeal of modern commuting facilities as key factors influencing their preference for metro rail.
As the metro rail consistently experiences an upswing in passenger numbers during peak hours, buses struggle to fill their vehicles and contend with prolonged traffic issues. Passengers, seeking a more reliable and modern mode of transportation, find the metro rail increasingly appealing.
To address the passenger influx, the metro rail authorities are contemplating strategies such as augmenting the number of coaches, potentially adding two more compartments to each train or introducing new trains as needed.
Commuters have suggested improving the frequency from 10 to 5 minutes during peak hours to accommodate growing demand.
Commuters’ dissatisfaction with buses, characterized by dirtiness and outdated facilities, further contributes to the metro rail’s popularity.
The metro rail system, offering a cleaner, modern and efficient transportation experience, is poised to continue reshaping Dhaka’s commuting landscape, posing both challenges and opportunities for various modes of transport.
