Filmmaker Abu Syed has presented the mechanical model of a “moving road” concept to combat air pollution and traffic congestion in Dhaka.
The elevated moving road model was displayed at Shinepukur in Mirpur 2,Dhaka from October 16-22.
The overhead road will move, instead of vehicles, to transport passengers to their destination—alleviating traffic.
The concept, which is said to be the first of its kind in the world, was first introduced by filmmaker Abu Syed on September 26, 2017.
The moving road model was set up in the garage of Syed’s house and is capable of serving at least 10 passengers.
According to Syed, the 50ft model of the moving road cost Tk20 lakh.
Concept 'moving road' prototype |Mahmud Hossain Opu/Dhaka Tribune
He said the moving road can be constructed above existing footpaths, or on one or two lanes of the road. It will have two parts: a fixed platform, and a moving section like that of a walkway in an airport.
The moving part of the road will travel at speeds of 30 to 50km/h, and will run on tracks, similar to a train. People will use platforms to get on or off the road.
According the concept paper, the road will be 10ft above the ground. People will access the platforms using escalators from the footpaths. The platform, and the moving road, both are to be six feet wide. The road will have seating and standing sections with a fixed roof running along the track.
Syed said if the system is implemented in Dhaka, people will be able to travel with ease. The moving road will be environment-friendly, will decrease transport costs, and reduce road accidents. As they will be elevated, the moving road tracks can be placed above the existing road network.
The whole project is estimated to cost around Tk20,000 crore, and link a 400km network. It should cost of Tk5 lakh per kilometre—much lower than the price of fuel burned in traffic congestion every year—according to a concept paper.
Abu Syed said: “Developed countries do not face the type of traffic gridlock one sees in Dhaka. So their experts have not thought of such a way to improve traffic movement.
“We have been struggling for many years. Traffic congestion kills a lot of precious time. We have to improve the traffic system. If we build such a road, 50% of our transport costs can be cut. The existing flyovers need not be removed for the moving road,” he added.
Syed furthered: “I think this mechanical presentation is now at the primary stage. After expert review, further development will be discussed.
He also said the government has already looked into the matter in order to inspect the technical and functional aspects of the moving road and determine its commercial suitability.
The Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA) has also formed an expert committee in this regard.
