Photo: Collected
Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) has planned to expand the Hatirjheel waterway, keeping in mind the demand of passengers and the need for an alternative transport system.
In the meantime, discussions have been held with the Ministry of Housing and Public Works. RAJUK plans to start work on the project soon and hopes that this will reduce the pressure on several important roads in the capital.
Currently, water boats ply between FDC Junction, Police Plaza, Rampura, and Gudaraghat in Hatirjheel. Rajuk plans to extend the route to Kalachandpur, Banani Graveyard, and Chairman Bari in the future. To increase the boat service, the culverts and bridges of the connecting roads will be demolished and reconstructed. Additionally, the water level in the lake will be increased to ensure uninterrupted navigation throughout the year.
RAJUK Chairman Major General (retd) Siddiqur Rahman Sarker said, “Hatirjheel's water boat service has brought relief to public life in the capital. Currently, more than 10,000 passengers use this route every day to avoid traffic jams. To further extend the scope of this service, we plan to extend the boat service to Kalachandpur and Banani Graveyard.”
According to information, after the boat service was launched in the capital's Hatirjheel in 2016, it became very popular among the public. Those concerned said that 8,000 to 10,000 passengers cross here in 15 boats every day. Morning and evening commuters, in particular, are benefiting more by using this boat service.
RAJUK Member (Development) Major (Retd.) Samsuddin Ahmad Chowdhury told The Daily Messenger, “In the project we are going to undertake, the naval route has become narrow near Karail Basti. If this issue can be resolved, the water network of Hatirjheel will extend to Chairman Bari via Gudaraghat, Kalachandpur, Banani Graveyard, and Niketan. There are some problems, but once the minister reviews all the plans and they are resolved, the lake will be opened up.”
Meanwhile, passengers said many people come to Hatirjheel with their families in the busy capital during the afternoon. Apart from this, school, college, and office passengers regularly travel on this route. Considering the demand, they requested an increase in the number of boats and more frequent service.
Welcoming this plan by RAJUK, urban planner Dr. Aktar Mahmud said, “Not only Hatirjheel but the canals and rivers around Dhaka city can be used to run water taxis. On the one hand, those who will be involved in the operation will benefit financially, and on the other hand, city dwellers will get an alternative transport system along with road transport.”
Messenger/Disha
