Decision to relocate Karwan Bazar kitchen market to Gabtoli to ease traffic congestion

The government has decided to relocate the Karwan Bazar kitchen market to Gabtoli in an effort to ease traffic congestion in the capital. The decision was made during a meeting at the Prime Minister's Office in Tejgaon on Saturday, August 29.

Chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the meeting focused on alleviating Dhaka's traffic congestion, modernising the traffic system, and restoring discipline in the transport sector. Authorities were directed to take necessary action accordingly.

Karwan Bazar, located between Maghbazar and Farmgate, is one of Dhaka's main wholesale and retail markets. Established around the 1950s-60s, the market spreads over approximately 13 acres and houses over 500 shops, drawing thousands of customers and traders daily.

Its location at the junction of Tejgaon industrial area, Maghbazar, Farmgate and Asadgate makes the road perpetually congested. Traffic is particularly severe from 8am to 2pm due to wholesale buyers and the movement of goods-laden trucks and lagunas.

Potential benefits of the relocation
Reduced traffic congestion: The move is expected to significantly ease vehicle pressure on roads connecting Farmgate, Maghbazar and Asadgate.

Environmental improvement: A new facility with modern waste management will replace the pollution caused by the existing market's waste and waterlogging.

New economic opportunities: Shifting the market to Gabtoli is anticipated to create new jobs for vendors, transport workers and labourers.

Modern facilities: The new market on 10 acres near Gabtoli bus terminal is expected to include multi-storied buildings, cold storage and loading zones.

Potential challenges
Increased distance for buyers: Karwan Bazar's central location is a major advantage; the shift to Gabtoli may cause inconvenience for many customers.

Relocation costs for businesses: Well-established businesses may face significant time and expense to transition to a new location.

Risk of shifting congestion: With the bus terminal and traffic from Mohammadpur already present, shifting the market could potentially increase congestion in Gabtoli.

Implementation complexity: There is a concern about fitting the entire market into 10 acres, as poor planning could risk the project's success.

The meeting also discussed broader traffic management, including bus terminal reorganisation and parking facilities. It was attended by key officials, including Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam.