Dhaka is set for a big change as a World Bank-backed Public Transport Fund will help roll out 400 electric buses and bring order to the city’s chaotic bus system. The fund will provide Tk427 crore to buy and support the buses while the government will control fares and take on revenue risks so operators receive fixed fees and service stays stable. A state-owned asset company will buy and own the buses and handle maintenance, battery replacement and warranties so operators can focus on running routes. Depots and charging hubs will be upgraded on government land in several locations and these works will create local jobs in construction, electrical work and depot operations. The plan includes a scrappage and compensation scheme to retire old diesel buses and help owners move into the modern system, supported by Tk85.40 crore for compensation. Intelligent transport systems will be introduced with vehicle tracking, automated fare collection, passenger displays, an operations control centre and a mobile app so riders can check schedules, buy tickets and track buses. Training and capacity building will help managers, drivers and conductors learn safe driving, better customer care and how to use new systems, and incentives will encourage more women to join operational roles. Planners say the fund is part of a larger reform to cut pollution, reduce accidents and make daily travel quicker and less stressful for commuters. World Bank loans and government support will cover large parts of the cost and officials expect the plan to improve air quality and public health by replacing polluting buses with electric ones. Separating ownership from operations aims to improve accountability and make it easier to maintain safety and quality standards. Officials also expect benefits for small businesses near depots and along routes as steadier transport brings more customers to shops, food stalls and repair services. The plan calls for clearer rules, stronger oversight and better coordination among agencies so service gaps are filled and disorderly competition that once led to reckless driving and clustered buses is reduced. Experts say success will depend on careful implementation, fair contracts and cooperation from private operators, and early talks have already involved owners, associations and state operators to build support. With practical steps like modern depots, clear contracts, digital ticketing and training programs, the fund could change how people move around the city, cut harmful emissions, create jobs and make public transport safer and more reliable for everyone. The mood among planners and commuters is hopeful, and if the scheme is rolled out with clear local hiring, steady maintenance and open communication, many families could save time and money and the city would move toward cleaner, more orderly travel that supports growth and daily life.
