How Singapore’s transport policies can inspire Dhaka’s growth
January 28, 2025
DHAKA – Singapore, one of Southeast Asia’s busiest cities, is known for its efficiency. During a recent visit, I was amazed by how seamlessly this small city with a high population density operates without much human involvement in managing traffic, thanks to its revolutionary transport system. The success of Singapore provides a powerful blueprint for cities like Dhaka.
After its independence in 1965, the Singaporean government identified and developed an integrated transport strategy to accommodate a growing population projected to reach 3.4 million by 1992. A traffic study conducted by the Singapore State and City Planning Department in 1967 identified that an improved traffic system with a focus on public transport was essential for the country’s growth. This study led the government to invest in the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, with construction starting in 1983 and operations beginning in 1987. This network has since provided millions of residents with a fast and reliable means of transportation.
Later, in 1995, Singapore established the Land Transport Authority (LTA), which introduced various strategies to manage the private vehicle population, including the Vehicle Quota System (VQS), a life-changing system that caps the number of new vehicles registered in the city, thereby mitigating traffic congestion.
Today, Singapore’s transport system is recognised globally for its efficiency and effectiveness. It has a well-connected network of roads, buses, MRT system, and Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines linking various neighbourhoods. While travelling, I spoke to a migrant named Shri, who has been living in Singapore for the last six years. He mentioned that he can travel to any part of the city using