The Dhaka–Ashulia Elevated Expressway project is making steady progress as part of Bangladesh’s broader effort to modernize urban infrastructure and reduce chronic traffic congestion in and around the capital. Once completed, the expressway will significantly improve connectivity between Dhaka and its northwestern suburbs, boosting mobility, trade, and urban development. The 24-kilometer elevated expressway will stretch from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to the Dhaka Export Processing Zone (DEPZ) in Ashulia, connecting key industrial zones and residential areas. This high-capacity corridor is expected to cut travel time by more than 50% for daily commuters and freight transport, offering a much-needed alternative to the overburdened ground-level highways. The project is being carried out by China National Machinery Import and Export Corporation (CMC), under the supervision of the Bangladesh Bridge Authority. Both the governments of Bangladesh and China are providing funding for this initiative. Construction activities are currently underway in several sections, including the installation of pillars and elevated deck structures. Officials say around 40% of the physical work has already been completed, with full project delivery expected by 2026. Once operational, the expressway will include modern entry and exit ramps, toll plazas, and service areas to ensure smooth and efficient traffic flow. It will also integrate with other transport corridors, including the Dhaka Elevated Expressway and the proposed Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. The expressway is part of the government’s Vision 2041 plan to develop Dhaka into a smart, livable city with efficient transport networks. By connecting key industrial zones with the airport and city center, the project is expected to boost exports, reduce logistics costs, and attract further investment in the Greater Dhaka area. In addition to economic benefits, the elevated design helps preserve existing land and minimize displacement. It also aims to reduce vehicle emissions by cutting idling time and improving average traffic speed—a step forward in reducing Dhaka’s air pollution challenges. Urban planners and residents have welcomed the project’s potential to decongest existing routes like the Tongi–Ashulia–DEPZ corridor. As the city continues to grow, infrastructure like the Dhaka–Ashulia Elevated Expressway is essential for improving quality of life and sustaining economic momentum. With continued commitment from both local and international stakeholders, the expressway represents a major leap toward a more connected and efficient urban future for Bangladesh.
