Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chaired an Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) meeting on Wednesday (September 16) morning to review several development proposals, including the Tk 45,503.77 crore MRT Line-5 (Southern) project.

The meeting began at 10:00 AM at the Public Administration Conference Room in the Bangladesh Secretariat, which is still ongoing. While the government aims to launch electric trains connecting Gabtoli to Dasherkandi, the high-budget metro rail project faces last-minute approval uncertainty.

Sources indicate the government may prioritize two alternative metro rail projects funded by another development partner. An international consulting firm has also alleged collusion regarding consultant selection for the line.

The proposed 17.20 km route features 13.10 km of underground track with 11 stations and 4.10 km of elevated track with four stations. The train will travel from Gabtoli through Shyamoli, Karwan Bazar, and Hatirjheel to Dasherkandi in 28 minutes, running every four minutes and 30 seconds during peak hours. Once operational, the line is projected to carry 924,000 passengers daily across 19 air-conditioned six-coach trains.

Originally conceptualized under the previous administration at Tk 54,618.96 crore, the project cost was reviewed and reduced by Tk 9,115.19 crore, or 16.69 per cent.

However, part of this reduction involves transferring about Tk 2,000 crore in interest and commitment charges directly to the Finance Division. Additional savings were achieved by cutting land acquisition needs from 23.09 hectares to 9.104 hectares, while retaining Tk 4,716 crore for affected party rehabilitation.

The funding structure allocates Tk 15,197.66 crore from government funds and Tk 30,306.10 crore from foreign loans provided by the Asian Development Bank and South Korea's EDCF. Slated for implementation between September 2026 and August 2033, ECNEC approval will clear the path for final loan agreements, land acquisition, and contractor bidding under the BNP-led government.

Sun News/ra