Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has adopted a Tk 1,904-crore development plan for fiscal year 2026–27, with a focus on transforming southern Dhaka into a modern, green and more livable part of the capital.
The plan prioritises AI-powered traffic management, development of a new bus terminal at Kanchpur, renovation and beautification of Dhanmondi Lake, road infrastructure and extensive tree plantation, DSCC Administrator and veteran freedom fighter Md Abdus Salam told media.
The corporation aims to develop South Dhaka as a “smart and green city” by improving transportation, preserving the environment and enhancing the city’s overall aesthetics.
According to DSCC data, Tk 1,904.42 crore has been allocated for development projects in 2026–27, down from the Tk 2,196.40 crore original allocation in 2025–26. The revised allocation last fiscal year stood at Tk 1,707.41 crore.
Of the current development allocation, Tk 806.49 crore has been earmarked for infrastructure projects funded by DSCC itself—an increase of Tk 79.33 crore from the previous year’s original allocation.
Road development, renovation and maintenance account for the largest share, with Tk 526.6 crore allocated to improve connectivity and ensure safer and more comfortable travel for residents.
The corporation is also moving to introduce AI-based traffic management. Tk 40 crore has been allocated to install AI-powered traffic signals at 22 intersections in the DSCC area with technical assistance from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
“Using technology in modern city management is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” Abdus Salam said, adding that AI-driven signals could analyse traffic flow and reduce congestion and travel time.
Another major initiative is the planned relocation of the Sayedabad Inter-District Bus Terminal to Kanchpur.
Following the Prime Minister’s instructions, Tk 40 crore has been allocated this fiscal year to develop platforms, sheds, ticket counters and toilets at the Kanchpur terminal.
DSCC officials believe relocating the inter-district terminal would reduce the movement of long-distance buses inside Dhaka, easing congestion and pressure on city roads.
Environmental improvement and recreational facilities have also received significant attention. Tk 45 crore has been allocated for infrastructure development, environmental protection and beautification of Dhanmondi Lake.
The funding is intended to make the lake more attractive and accessible while maintaining its ecological balance.
“Urban development is not just about roads and buildings. Citizens’ right to walk, recreation and a clean environment must also be ensured,” Abdus Salam said.
The DSCC has allocated Tk 7 crore for tree plantation this fiscal year under the National Tree Plantation Programme. Trees and grass have already been planted on road medians under the corporation’s “Zero Soil” initiative.
A permanent nursery has also been established at Osmani Udyan. Around 1,400 saplings of different sizes have already been collected, with a target to produce 15,000–20,000 saplings next year.
Another nursery is being set up on the southern side of Nagar Bhaban to help meet the corporation’s future demand for saplings.
Abdus Salam said greenery would be expanded through planned tree planting along road medians, parks, open spaces and around public institutions.
“We want a Dhaka where development is visible, communication is modern, the environment is green and citizens can live comfortably,” he said, stressing that public participation and awareness would be essential for sustaining the city’s development.
The DSCC administrator said the 2026–27 plan seeks to integrate road and infrastructure development with smart traffic management, environmental protection and improved recreational facilities, with the ultimate goal of making everyday life easier for city residents.