We’re concerned about the collapse of bus services in Khulna city that has been depriving its 18 lakh residents as well as visitors of an affordable public transport option. As per a report by this daily, the once-vibrant bus services that connected the divisional city with its outskirts and key neighbourhoods have disappeared over the years, leaving commuters dependent on the costlier and often unsafe three-wheelers, including CNG-run and battery-powered auto-rickshaws and easy bikes. This, understandably, has affected commuting, especially for students and low- and middle-income groups who must spend more on transport while remaining vulnerable to periodic fare hikes. In recent weeks, for example, fares have reportedly risen by up to 20 percent due to increases in fuel prices.
Our report cites residents and activists who lamented what the gradual disappearance of bus services has meant for the city. They recalled the time when Khulna had a widely used bus network that enabled people from different neighbourhoods and surrounding upazilas to travel affordably and efficiently. In the 1990s, more than 60 buses reportedly operated on various routes. As recently as 2005, around 50 buses were still running within the city. Things started to change rapidly after 2010, when CNG- and diesel-run three-wheelers hit the roads, and by 2017, the number of buses had dropped to just five before completely going off the roads in 2018.
Their total absence today has to do with the unchecked expansion and dominance of three-wheelers, combined with the failure of the relevant authorities to preserve or revive bus operations. There are allegations that bus operators often faced obstruction from transport groups at key city points, discouraging them from continuing services. Even an initiative by the BRTC that launched five double-deckers ended in failure; it had to take them off allegedly in the face of opposition from three-wheeler drivers’ unions. Some local political leaders with close ties to these unions are reportedly resisting moves to relaunch bus services. Although, when contacted, the Khulna City Corporation administrator referred to plans to relaunch services, possibly through electric buses, it may be a while before residents can access such a service again.
We don’t need to reiterate the importance of a structured public transport system in a city of this importance. It is vital that the authorities help revive the bus services without delay, regardless of any opposition from vested interest groups. Dedicated bus routes, strict regulation of all modes of transport and related groups, and protection against any unlawful obstruction are also essential. All this will also help improve traffic, which the city needs.
