Flyover to create traffic mess in Ctg

Construction of the flyover between Muradpur and Lalkhan Bazar in Chittagong city and the subsequent plan to extend it to Shah Amanat International Airport would not improve the transport system in the city, but rather create a mess, said urban planners yesterday.

Town planners and architects made the observations at a press conference at Chittagong Press Club, organised by Forum for Planned Chittagong.

Engineer Subhash Barua, who was involved in formulating the city master plan, said the ongoing project would close off the opportunity to introduce Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) in the city.   

He urged the government to take an immediate decision in this matter considering the concerns, and said later, there would be no other choice but to demolish the structure.

Architect Zarina Hossain said construction of the flyover would lead to shrunken footpaths and space for public buses.

The speakers emphasised introduction of the BRT system from Bahaddarhat to the airport with articulated buses carrying at least 50 passengers each.

Through this system, passengers of ten lanes can travel in only one, the conference concluded.