The impending construction of a multi-story truck terminal brings optimistic prospects for truck owners, with the city corporation having already communicated details regarding the acquisition of land for this development
The establishment of truck terminals is crucial for addressing various challenges in the transportation industry, including the lack of suitable parking spaces, the need for driver amenities, and overall logistics efficiency. By offering a comprehensive range of services and facilities, truck terminals contribute to the optimization of freight transportation, benefiting both trucking companies and the broader supply chain. Henceforth, the Dhaka North city has secured 5.11 acres of land from two ministries to construct a multi-storey truck terminal in Tejgaon, the industrial epicenter of the capital.
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This is a significant development towards building the new truck terminal, as it has the potential to address the enduring issue of traffic congestion in Tejgaon. The congestion, which stems from the parking of hundreds of trucks carrying goods from various parts of the country around Karwan Bazar, the central hub for consumer goods in the capital, could be effectively mitigated by this development.
Project Planning Unveiled: Structure, Cost, and Funding
Dhaka North’s CEO, Selim Reza, revealed that the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology has allocated 3.5 acres, while the Ministry of Housing and Public Works has allotted 1.61 acres for an upcoming terminal construction project. In this next phase, the detailed planning process, led by Reza, will encompass crucial elements such as project structure, cost evaluation, funding sources, and the implementation timeline.
Dhaka North’s Multi-Story Truck Terminal
- Dhaka North secured 5.11 acres from Ministries.
- Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology: 3.5 acres.
- Ministry of Housing and Public Works: 1.61 acres.
- Parking Capacity: 2,000 vehicles, daily capacity of up to 5,000 vehicles.
Dhaka North Plans Multi-Story Terminal for Traffic Relief
In a meeting held on December 30, 2020, Dhaka North City Mayor Atiqul Islam unveiled plans for the construction of a terminal. Following this announcement, Dhaka North submitted an application to the ministries for the necessary land, securing approval in October.
The Department of Architecture is anticipated to oversee the design of the terminal, while the construction will be undertaken by the Public Works Department. A representative from Dhaka North revealed that the multi-story terminal is projected to accommodate 2,000 vehicles in its parking facility, with a capacity to manage up to 5,000 vehicles daily.
The terminal’s design encompasses both underground and surface sections, with the latter being more expansive. Although the decision to proceed with the terminal’s construction has been finalized, specific project details will be determined post the upcoming general elections scheduled for January of the following year.
The existing truck terminal in Tejgaon has persistently contributed to severe traffic congestion in the capital. The main road stretching from the Satrasta intersection to Karwan Bazar, along with its surrounding alleys, is routinely obstructed by parked trucks, pickups, and covered vans, significantly disrupting the normal flow of vehicular movement.
Anisul Haque’s 2015 Reforms and Multi-Story Truck Terminal
Former Dhaka North City Mayor Annisul Huq initiated efforts to bring the truck stand under proper management, resulting in some improvement. However, the area gradually regressed to its previous chaotic state after Huq’s demise. In 2015, Mayor Anisul Haque took office and implemented significant changes, particularly in addressing the truck terminal issue. His administration successfully eliminated muscle power and ousted syndicates through the implementation of an e-tender system.
Over the past three decades, the Tejgaon road became impassable due to illegal truck stands constructed by vested interests. Anisul Haque’s leadership, however, brought about positive changes, transforming the situation. His courageous activities have significantly contributed to the development of Dhaka North City.
The announcement of a multi-story truck terminal is welcome news for truck owners, as the city corporation has already communicated the details of land acquisition to them. The new terminal holds the promise of eliminating traffic jams caused by trucks, offering secure parking facilities for trucks arriving from outside Dhaka, and providing drivers and co-drivers with a designated rest area.
Government Initiatives Tackle Truck Parking Woes and Traffic Congestion
The absence of designated truck terminals has led to disorderly roadside parking, subjecting truck drivers and workers to frequent police harassment for unauthorized parking. In response, the current government has initiated measures to establish truck terminals not only in Dhaka but also in various districts. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to alleviate significant traffic congestion in the city resulting from indiscriminate car parking.
Moreover, truck terminals play a crucial role in transporting goods to various cities. However, the lack of fixed parking spaces for these trucks after daily operations forces truck owners, drivers, and laborers to resort to parking loaded trucks on various roads. This practice not only worsens traffic congestion for commuters but also presents challenges during the unloading of goods.
Specifically, the unauthorized placement of trucks along railway warehouse sidewalks creates difficulties in unloading and transporting goods from railway freight trains. This situation necessitates a systematic approach to address nighttime truck parking challenges and ensure the smooth flow of traffic and goods transportation.
Comments from Bangladesh Truck-Covered Van Owners Association
Md Hasanul Kabir, Joint General Secretary of the Bangladesh Truck-Covered Van Owners Association, informed that the association has been advocating for a truck terminal in Tejgaon for a considerable time. According to Kabir, the news of a multi-storied truck terminal under construction is welcomed by truck owners, and the city corporation has communicated the progress of land acquisition to them.
Kabir emphasized that the upcoming terminal holds the promise of easing truck traffic congestion. It is expected to offer secure parking facilities for trucks arriving from locations outside Dhaka and dedicated rest areas for both drivers and co-drivers.
In conclusion, the construction of the multi-story truck terminal in Tejgaon holds promise for Dhaka North City. Anticipated benefits include the elimination of traffic jams, the provision of secure parking facilities, and designated rest areas for drivers — a comprehensive solution contributing to the city’s infrastructure and the well-being of its residents.
