The Dhaka Elevated Expressway is a transformative infrastructure project in Bangladesh, designed to ease traffic congestion, enhance connectivity, and improve the overall urban mobility of Dhaka, one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Spanning over 19.73 kilometers, this elevated roadway is a critical component of the government’s efforts to modernize the city’s transportation network and facilitate smoother and faster movement across the capital. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway, highlighting its key features, benefits, construction progress, and impact on Dhaka’s urban landscape.
Introduction to Dhaka Elevated Expressway
The Dhaka Elevated Expressway (DEE) is an ambitious project aimed at providing a high-capacity, north-south corridor through the heart of Dhaka city. The expressway is expected to significantly reduce travel time, minimize traffic congestion, and enhance the efficiency of public and private transportation. The expressway stretches from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the north to the Kutubkhali area near the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway in the south.
Key Features of Dhaka Elevated Expressway
- Total Length: 19.73 kilometers
- Starting Point: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka
- Ending Point: Kutubkhali, Dhaka-Chattogram Highway
- Lanes: Four-lane dual carriageway
- Phases: Constructed in three phases
- Managing Authority: Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA)
- Operator: First Dhaka Elevated Expressway Company Limited (FDEE)
Phases of Construction
The construction of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway is divided into three main phases:
- Phase 1: Spanning from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Banani Railway Station, this 7.5-kilometer stretch is the first segment of the expressway.
- Phase 2: Extending from Banani Railway Station to Moghbazar, covering an additional 5.85 kilometers.
- Phase 3: The final phase runs from Moghbazar to Kutubkhali, near the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway, adding another 6.38 kilometers.
Development Timeline and Milestones
- 2011: The project was initiated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with First Dhaka Elevated Expressway Company Limited (FDEE) awarded the contract to construct, operate, and maintain the expressway.
- 2015: Construction began after addressing initial delays related to land acquisition, design changes, and financing.
- 2019: Construction work on the expressway progressed significantly, with the completion of major sections.
- 2022: The first phase was substantially completed, and preparations for partial opening were underway.
- 2023: The expressway is set to open to the public after the completion of essential safety tests and infrastructure readiness assessments.
Benefits of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway
The Dhaka Elevated Expressway is expected to bring numerous benefits to Dhaka and its residents:
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: By providing a dedicated route for vehicles, the expressway is expected to alleviate congestion on major arterial roads, especially during peak hours.
- Shortened Travel Time: The expressway will significantly reduce travel time between the northern and southern parts of Dhaka, improving efficiency for commuters and businesses.
- Enhanced Urban Mobility: The expressway will provide a faster and more reliable route for public transportation, facilitating better connectivity between key areas of the city.
- Economic Boost: Improved transportation infrastructure is likely to attract investment, stimulate economic activity, and enhance property values along the expressway route.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduced congestion and smoother traffic flow can lead to lower fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to a cleaner urban environment.
Challenges Faced During Construction
While the Dhaka Elevated Expressway promises significant benefits, it has also faced several challenges:
- Land Acquisition Delays: Acquiring land for the project was one of the biggest hurdles, leading to delays in the construction timeline.
- Design Changes: Modifications in the original design to accommodate urban planning needs and local community concerns caused further delays.
- Funding and Financing Issues: Securing funds for such a large-scale infrastructure project required careful financial planning and negotiation with international financiers and stakeholders.
- Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The global pandemic slowed down construction activities due to supply chain disruptions, lockdowns, and health-related concerns.
Current Status and Future Prospects
The Dhaka Elevated Expressway is currently nearing completion, with final safety checks, inspections, and infrastructural enhancements underway. The expressway is expected to partially open to the public in 2023, with full completion targeted soon after.
Future Expansion Plans
There are plans to extend the expressway network further, enhancing connectivity across Dhaka and its surrounding areas. Additionally, there are discussions on integrating the expressway with other transportation projects, such as the Dhaka Metro Rail and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, to create a comprehensive urban transportation network.
Interesting Facts About Dhaka Elevated Expressway
- First of Its Kind: The Dhaka Elevated Expressway is the first elevated expressway in Bangladesh, marking a significant milestone in the country’s infrastructure development.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model: The expressway is developed under a PPP model, which combines public funding and private sector expertise to optimize project delivery.
- High Traffic Capacity: Designed to handle approximately 85,000 vehicles per day, easing the traffic burden on Dhaka’s road network.
- Integrated Tolling System: The expressway will feature a modern electronic toll collection system to ensure smooth and efficient toll collection, minimizing delays for vehicles.
Impact on Dhaka’s Urban Landscape
The Dhaka Elevated Expressway is poised to have a transformative impact on Dhaka’s urban landscape:
- Improved Accessibility: The expressway will improve accessibility to key business districts, residential areas, and transportation hubs, fostering greater economic activity.
- Urban Revitalization: The areas surrounding the expressway are expected to see significant development, with increased investment in real estate, retail, and commercial spaces.
- Tourism Growth: Enhanced connectivity will boost tourism by providing faster access to major attractions and facilities in Dhaka and beyond.
Conclusion
The Dhaka Elevated Expressway represents a pivotal development in Bangladesh’s infrastructure landscape, aimed at reducing traffic congestion, improving urban mobility, and fostering economic growth. As Dhaka continues to grow as a major metropolitan center, the expressway will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s future by providing a faster, safer, and more efficient route for its millions of residents and visitors. The successful completion and operation of this project will not only enhance Dhaka’s transportation network but also set a benchmark for future urban infrastructure projects in Bangladesh.