Narayanganj to be Connected to Metro Rail Network with Four New Stations

Narayanganj city is set to be linked with the metro rail network under the MRT Line-2 project of the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL). As part of the project, four new stations are planned at Narayanganj Bus Terminal, Jalkuri, Bhuigora, and Signboard.

The total estimated cost of the project is BDT 29,571 crore, and detailed feasibility studies are currently underway.

Under the plan, the metro rail line will stretch from Gabtoli-Mohammadpur-New Market-Gulistan-Kamalapur-Signboard to the district headquarters of Narayanganj. A branch line from Gulistan to Sadarghat will include both elevated and underground sections, creating an approximately 35-kilometer-long metro rail corridor. The project aims for completion by 2030.

The project will be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with DMTCL overseeing its development.

A senior official from the Economic Relations Division (ERD) stated that the World Bank is providing technical assistance for the project’s proforma, as it plans to finance MRT Line-2. However, the official warned that delays in completing the proforma process could risk losing the funding.

To expedite the work, an inter-ministerial meeting was held at the ERD on August 7, chaired by Additional Secretary and Acting Wing Chief (World Bank) Mirana Mahrukh.

Md. Abdul Baki Mia, Director (Planning and Development) of DMTCL, said that the technical assistance proforma has already been submitted to the Road Transport and Highways Division. It will soon go to the Planning Commission and then to the ERD for approval. He added that the World Bank has set a condition to approve the proforma by August to ensure the release of a USD 2.5 million grant.