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Purbachal’s Underground Metro to Start Without Disrupting Canals
Dhaka's first underground metro, MRT Line-1, is set to begin its primary construction in Purbachal, with a major commitment to preserving the area's canals. The project's development will move forward without filling or altering any of the canals in the region, authorities announced today.
The Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit Development Project (DMRTDP) has already invited tenders for four key underground contract packages, which will focus on constructing tunnels and underground stations. These will serve as a foundational step towards a state-of-the-art mass transit system for the city.
As part of Contract Package CP-05, a temporary construction yard will be established between Kuril Transition, Nadda Station, and New Market for tunnel and station work. The site will be located on the southern side of the canal next to the Purbachal Expressway in Kuril. To ensure minimal environmental disruption, steel posts and metallic platforms will be installed over the canal, preserving its natural flow. Once the construction is complete, the area will be restored to its original state.
The project has already received prior approval from Rajdhani Unnayan Kartipakkha (Rajuk) in 2021, with the MRT Line-1 construction benefiting from an updated environmental clearance certificate, which was renewed in 2024.
DMRTDP officials emphasized that the construction will be carried out in an environmentally responsible manner, focusing on sustainability and minimizing risks to the surrounding ecosystem.
To ensure the highest standards, several internationally experienced construction firms have been selected to oversee the development of Dhaka’s underground metro. This marks a crucial milestone in the city's journey toward a more efficient and eco-friendly public transportation network.
By prioritizing environmental care while advancing infrastructure, the MRT Line-1 project aims to reshape Dhaka's future, improving mobility for millions while safeguarding the city's natural heritage.