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The Dhaka Metro resumed operations on Sunday, over a month after being shut down due to intense anti-government protests in Bangladesh. Commuters, particularly students and office workers, were relieved as they had been struggling with Dhaka's infamous traffic jams.
According to an official notification, the metro services restarted around 7 AM. However, two stations — Mirpur 10 and Kazipara — will remain closed for now. These stations were damaged during the protests in July.
Enhanced Security Measures
Road Transport and Communication Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan stated that the government plans to enhance security measures for the metro rail infrastructure to prevent future vandalism. He mentioned that the interim government is considering declaring metro rail operations as an essential service to avoid any disruptions.
Khan also travelled from Agargaon station to Bangladesh Secretariat using the metro. A Dhaka High Court official expressed relief at the resumption of services, noting it was a significant relief for daily commuters like him.
Metro Rail History
Bangladesh launched its first metro rail service on December 28, 2022, with assistance from Japan. The project aimed to ease commuting in Dhaka, one of the world's most congested cities. Initially called Dhaka MRT Line 6, it operated on an 11.73-km section from Uttara North to Agargaon, featuring nine stations.
In November 2023, another section from Agargaon to Motijheel was inaugurated by then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This new section spans 9.53 km and includes eight stations.
Political Turmoil
The anti-government protests reached their peak on August 5, leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and her subsequent flight to India. Protesters celebrated her departure as a "day of victory."
The Dhaka Metro's return marks a significant step towards normalcy for many residents who rely on this service for their daily commute.
