BRTC Pink Bus gets Starlink in first moving-vehicle internet trial

A BRTC Pink Bus has been equipped with satellite internet on a trial basis, as Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) tests whether high-speed connectivity can be maintained on moving public transport.

BSCL installed a Starlink high-performance terminal on one of the buses and demonstrated the service on Tuesday (August 18) at the launch of BRTC’s dedicated Pink Bus service for women at its Dhaka Truck Depot in Tejgaon.

The trial is aimed at assessing whether satellite technology can provide stable, high-speed internet while a vehicle is in motion. It will also allow BSCL to evaluate how satellite connectivity could be integrated into Bangladesh’s public transport system.

If the trial proves successful, the technology could eventually be extended beyond Pink Buses to other moving vehicles, particularly those travelling through areas where conventional mobile network coverage is weak.

Officials said satellite connectivity could serve as an alternative communications option in coverage-limited areas while adding new digital services to public transport.

Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam attended the demonstration as chief guest. BRTC Chairman Abdul Latif Molla chaired the event.

Railways and Road Transport and Highways Division State Minister Habibur Rashid and Road Transport and Highways Division Secretary Dr Mohammad Ziaul Haque were also present.

Officials said the feasibility of expanding satellite internet across public transport will be assessed after analysing the results of the trial.