Govt plans sky rail for Dhaka
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said her government plans to construct elevated and underground railways, flyovers, orbital waterways, and circular roads in and around the capital to ease traffic congestion and to solve transport problems.
Replying to lawmakers' queries in the parliament, the premier said the government took up a project to upgrade Zia International Airport, construction of a bridge linking the Aarong point at Tejgaon and the Gulshan Shooting Club point, and a coordinated development project in Hatirjheel area.
She said the government also took steps to keep the Buriganga river and its adjacent lands free from encroachment.
For reducing the problems caused by air pollution in the capital, the government took measures to gradually remove from roads automobiles aged over 20 years.
"The program for increasing the number of buses to carry large numbers of passengers is now at the final stage. Numbers of three wheelers and other small transports will gradually be reduced," she said.
The premier said the activities of mobile courts will continue, and bus bays and parking spots will be designated in the city.
About climate change, she reiterated the demand for formation of an international fund to overcome the fallout. The premier urged the people of the country to be aware of the possible effects of the climate change.
Speaking on the tourism sector, the prime minister said her government wants to open up entire Bangladesh for tourists, as all parts of the country are beautiful.
"We are examining whether a regional tourism network can be built comprising Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan," she said.
Replying to queries on persons with disabilities, the premier urged all to be sympathetic to them. She said her government is sincere to ensure their rights and to create suitable environment for them at workplaces.
She said steps could be taken, so financially poor persons with disabilities may ride on public transports for free.
The premier said her government took various measures for the welfare and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
"We have planned construction of training centres in each district for persons with disabilities. Besides, the government is also considering setting up specialised schools at district levels for disabled and autistic children," Hasina, also the leader of the parliament, said.
Replying to another query, the premier said her government will conduct a survey in the Sundarban area for exploration of gas, and if gas is found that will be supplied to Khulna area.
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