Dhaka’s extensive metro rail initiative achieved a pivotal moment as both Karwan Bazar and Shahbagh metro stations commenced operations this Sunday. This development finalizes the integration of all 16 stations from Uttara North to Motijheel along the Dhaka metro rail corridor.
With the inauguration of these last two stations, the metro service will now facilitate commuters at every stop. Operating hours span from 7:30 am to 11:30 am between Uttara and Motijheel, while the stretch from Uttara to Agargaon will be accessible from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Previously, on December 13, the Agargaon-Motijheel section witnessed the launch of the Bijoy Sarani and Dhaka University metro stations, enhancing connectivity for the public.
The Dhaka Metro Rail initiative incurred a total expenditure of Tk33,472 crore, making it Bangladesh’s maiden metro rail venture. Notably, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) extended Tk19,719 crore as a loan for the project, while the Bangladeshi government financed the residual sum. Originally estimated at Tk21,000 crore, the project’s expenses surged due to the 1.6 km extension from Motijheel to Kamalapur, land acquisition for stations, and the inclusion of diverse amenities. Groundbreaking for the primary construction phase commenced in 2017.
