Dhaka University is operating decades-old buses that violate national and international transport, safety, and environmental standards, according to a recent internal audit reported by The Daily Observer. Out of 23 buses in its fleet, only 14 are operational, and just 13 run regular routes. Alarmingly, several of these are 35 years old—far exceeding the 15-year lifespan recommended by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA).
The university’s transport system is grappling with serious infrastructure decay and financial strain. Monthly maintenance costs range from Tk 7 to 8 lakh, with annual repair expenses reaching Tk 6.2 million—surpassing the allocated Tk 5 million budget. Spare parts and battery replacements alone cost nearly Tk 1.9 million each month.
Aged buses fail to meet fitness certification and emission control standards, violating Section 152 of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance, the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act of 1995, and global benchmarks like the WHO Road Safety guidelines and European emission standards. The BRTA has reviewed and banned these buses, though some—like bus 4166—remain in use.
The university’s wider transport network includes minibuses, microbuses, jeeps, ambulances, and pickup trucks, many of which are partially or fully out of service. While some vehicles are allocated for administrative use, personal use by officials is strictly prohibited.
Transport officials have acknowledged the severity of the situation. Five to six old buses are set for auction, but no comprehensive fleet overhaul plan has been initiated. With regulatory breaches, environmental risks, and a crumbling transport fleet, Dhaka University urgently needs a full-scale modernization strategy to ensure safety, sustainability, and legal compliance.
