Dhaka metro rail authorities have invited business owners to apply for 31 retail outlets across 14 stations, giving small traders a clear chance to reach thousands of daily commuters and build steady income. The call for applications aims to make station areas more useful by adding practical services and shops where passengers can buy snacks, bottled drinks, simple groceries, mobile top-ups and other everyday items without taking extra trips. For local entrepreneurs, these outlets can bring regular customers, simpler logistics and a stronger chance to formalise a small business near steady footfall. Officials say the move will help improve the look and safety of station spaces by replacing informal stalls with organised retail points that follow basic hygiene and safety rules. Riders should find shorter waits for everyday needs and commuters with tight schedules will benefit from quicker access to essentials. The openings can create jobs for stall workers, cleaners, security staff and small suppliers in nearby neighbourhoods. Small manufacturers and food vendors may find new buyers and repeat orders as stores stock local products. By placing retail where people already gather, the plan can boost sales for local makers and support a wider local supply chain. Transport planners note that managed retail helps spread crowds and avoids congestion by giving people options at different station points. Many traders see the chance as useful for building a visible brand and testing new products without heavy rent or long leases in other parts of the city. The authority plans a clear selection process based on simple checks so honest businesses can compete fairly. If operators keep sensible prices and clear services, both commuters and shop owners will win. City planners and business groups say the scheme could be expanded later if it proves effective. Similar ideas have helped transit systems elsewhere raise revenue while improving passenger experience. Some residents welcome the convenience while asking that shops stay neat and that local foods meet hygiene standards. To keep benefits wide, the plan can favour small firms and local food makers so profits stay in nearby communities. In short, the new retail outlets are a practical way to make daily travel smoother, support small business growth, create modest jobs and use station spaces to serve rather than crowd the public. With careful management, the rollout can lift convenience for riders and open new chances for neighborhood entrepreneurs to grow steadily. The programme may also help women entrepreneurs and young people who run small businesses by offering visible space and steady customers. Reasonable rent and fair contract terms can allow both experienced and new traders to benefit without heavy upfront costs. Over time, successful shops could inspire similar efforts at other transit hubs.
