The Dhaka Metro Passenger and Goods Transport Committee has approved route permits for 690 new air-conditioned buses to operate across various routes in the capital. The decision, confirmed by multiple committee members on Friday, allows eight transport companies to introduce modern and comfortable buses aimed at improving passenger experience. The companies include Shapla Paribahan, Chitra Paribahan Limited, Time Bird Express, Sprint Shuttle Private Limited, Iqbal Enterprise, New Dhaka Paribahan, Trust Transport Services, and Dhaka Transport Line, each assigned specific routes and bus numbers.

According to the committee’s decision, all buses must feature automatic doors and e-ticketing systems, operate under a counter-based service instead of contract systems, display route numbers and company names, and maintain uniform colors for each company’s fleet. The committee, chaired by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police chief, oversees route permits and transport operations in the city.

Transport experts emphasized the need for demand assessment, designated stops, and scheduling before launching the new buses. They also urged a scientific approach to route permits for sustainable solutions to Dhaka’s public transport challenges.