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PM urges relocation of Karwan Bazar market, transport terminals to ease traffic

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called for shifting Karwan Bazar's kitchen market and nearby transport terminals to alleviate chronic congestion in central Dhaka. The proposal aims to reduce traffic gridlock in one of the capital's most congested commercial areas.

LSN Bangladesh · 30 August 2026

PM urges relocation of Karwan Bazar market, transport terminals to ease traffic

The Prime Minister has directed authorities to explore options for relocating Karwan Bazar's kitchen market and associated transport terminals, citing persistent traffic problems in the densely populated commercial district. The move is intended to ease congestion that has plagued the area for years, disrupting both commercial operations and city transportation networks.

Karwan Bazar, one of Dhaka's oldest and largest wholesale markets, operates as a major hub for produce distribution and transport logistics. The concentration of market operations, terminal facilities, and retail businesses in the confined area has created severe bottlenecks, particularly during peak trading hours.

The relocation initiative reflects growing recognition of the need to decongest central Dhaka's commercial zones. Officials have been tasked with identifying suitable alternative locations that can accommodate both the kitchen market operations and transport terminals while maintaining accessibility for traders and customers.

The proposal forms part of broader traffic management efforts aimed at improving mobility in the capital. Similar relocations of markets and terminals have been considered in recent years as city planners grapple with Dhaka's rapid urbanization and increasing vehicular congestion.