The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) authorities in Dhaka are set to revolutionize the city’s metro experience with the ambitious construction of three state-of-the-art skywalks, strategically connecting key stations to pivotal locations for seamless and direct commuter access.
The inaugural skywalk, slated for Farmgate station, will seamlessly link commuters to the Farmgate footbridge. Meanwhile, Shahbagh station will witness the installation of the second skywalk, providing a direct and efficient link to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). The third skywalk aims to facilitate convenient access to the Bangladesh Secretariat from the strategically located Secretariat station in Paltan.
DMTCL Managing Director MAN Siddique expresses widespread anticipation among both passengers and authorities for these progressive skywalk initiatives. However, the skywalk dedicated to the Bangladesh Secretariat necessitates special consideration, prompting ongoing discussions with the Home Ministry to address access control intricacies.
Siddique also reveals that the proposed skywalk for BSMMU has received official approval and is currently advancing through the design stage. Simultaneously, ongoing construction activities include a skywalk from Shahbagh station, connecting to the foot-over bridge towards the national museum and a ramp leading to the near-completed BIRDEM Hospital.
Termed the metro rail skywalk, this elevated and covered pathway strategically links stations to key points of interest, enhancing commuter convenience and significantly reducing street traffic congestion. Positioned above tracks, it provides a weather-protected route, ensuring a seamless commuting experience.
In a recent development during the project implementation committee meeting of MRT Line-6 on November 27, 2023, a crucial decision was made to construct skywalks aimed at enhancing the movement of metro users. The committee swiftly initiated a pre-feasibility study to explore the potential extension of MRT Line-6 from Uttara to Tongi.
For example, commuters landing at Farmgate station will soon enjoy direct access to the Farmgate foot over bridge, allowing swift access to Farmgate directly from the station. Similarly, Shahbagh station commuters will effortlessly enter BSMMU, marking a significant improvement in connectivity.
Meanwhile, construction progress is underway on two skywalks at Shahbagh station, connecting to BIRDEM Hospital and the Shahbagh foot-overbridge, promising enhanced connectivity and accessibility for metro users. Stay tuned for a transformed metro experience in Dhaka with these groundbreaking skywalk projects.