Authorities are preparing to extend the operating hours of the Dhaka Metro Rail within this month, aiming to improve convenience for late commuters, especially office-goers and night-time passengers.
According to proposed changes, the last train from Uttara North is expected to depart at 10:20 pm, while the final train from Motijheel will leave at 11:00 pm. This marks a significant extension compared to the current schedule.
Officials say the move is intended to reduce passenger congestion during peak evening hours and provide greater flexibility for daily commuters.
Transport experts have welcomed the initiative, stating that extending metro rail service hours is a timely decision given Dhaka's growing population and increasing transport demand. They believe the change could help reduce reliance on private vehicles, easing traffic congestion across the city.
However, authorities have not yet officially announced the date from which the revised schedule will take effect. The metro rail operator is expected to issue detailed guidelines soon.
At present, metro rail operations begin at 6:30 am from Uttara and at 7:15 am from Motijheel. There are currently no plans to adjust morning schedules. The metro rail's operating hours were last extended in October last year, when services were increased by one hour. At that time, morning services began earlier, while evening services were extended by 30 minutes.
Currently, the system operates 297 trips per day. With the proposed extension, the number of daily trips is expected to increase further.
