A new ticket counter-based bus service is set to be launched in Dhaka on Thursday (6 February), aiming to streamline public transport, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance passenger safety. The ticket counter service will be formally inaugurated from Abdullahpur at 10:30 am on Thursday.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Dhaka Road Transport Owners Association (DRTOA), will see approximately 2,610 pink buses operated by 21 different companies serving routes from Abdullahpur to various destinations across the capital, according to Md Saiful Alam, general secretary of DRTOA.

Speaking at a press briefing Tuesday, Saiful Alam outlined that the new system will require passengers to purchase tickets before boarding, with strict adherence to designated stops for entry and exit. He emphasised that this approach seeks to eliminate the long-standing issue of contract-based bus operations, which has contributed to unregulated competition, erratic driving behaviour, and increased road accidents.

The transport sector has been under pressure to reform after a December meeting with the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, during which vehicle owners were instructed to implement fixed-term contracts with drivers instead of trip-based incentives. According to Saiful Alam, the introduction of the ticket counter system is the first step towards ensuring a safer and more structured transport network.

The DRTOA has outlined plans to extend the ticket counter-based operations to Mirpur, Gabtoli, and Mohammadpur by the end of this month. Eventually, all buses in Dhaka are expected to adopt the new system, ensuring a unified and more efficient transport service for commuters.

In preparation for the transition, bus drivers and assistants are currently undergoing training to familiarise themselves with the new ticketing procedures and improve passenger service standards. The DRTOA has also emphasised the importance of courteous behaviour from transport staff, hoping to create a safer and more commuter-friendly transport system.