Bus terminals in Dhaka will not be relocated immediately, Road Transport Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam said on Tuesday, adding that the government plans a gradual shift to reduce congestion and improve transport management.
Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat, the minister said buses would continue using existing terminals for passenger services, but long stays at terminals causing traffic congestion and disorder must be stopped.
“A bus will stay at a terminal for 12 to 24 hours. It will remain at the depot and come to the terminal shortly before departure to pick up passengers,” he said.
Regarding the Mohakhali Bus Terminal, the minister said it would remain operational for now but would eventually be relocated to Uttara. He said the government has decided to acquire 50 bighas of land for the new facility.
He added that the current congestion at Mohakhali is affecting regular services. Buses scheduled for departure will use the terminal, while additional buses waiting for later trips will be kept at a temporary depot area on the 300-feet road.
The minister also said the Sayedabad Bus Terminal would be shifted to Kanchpur after ensuring necessary facilities. Until then, the area will be used as a depot, with only departing buses staying at the terminal for a limited time.
TZ
