
Major Highways & Driving Tips in Dhaka, Bangladesh
1. Dhaka-Chittagong Highway
This is a vital highway for traveling between Dhaka and the port city of Chittagong, crucial for trade and commerce. Traffic congestion can be problematic, especially during peak hours. Frequent stops might be necessary due to toll booths.
- Traffic Patterns: Expect heavy congestion during morning and evening rush hours.
- Toll Booths: Be prepared for multiple toll booths along the way, which can add to travel time.
- Road Conditions: Although generally well-maintained, weather can affect driving conditions.
2. Dhaka-Aricha Highway
Connecting Dhaka to the western parts of Bangladesh, this highway sees a fair amount of long-distance traffic. It is important for travelers heading to the Bangabandhu Bridge or historic areas like Paurashava.
- Long-distance Travel: Ideal for reaching far-flung districts towards the west.
- Historical Stops: Check out cultural landmarks along the way for breaks during long drives.
- Seasonal Traffic: The route can get busy during holidays and festival seasons.
3. Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway
Known for connecting Dhaka to the northern districts, this highway cuts through lush landscapes. It is frequented by both local and freight traffic, making awareness of traffic diversity crucial.
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful countryside views, especially during the rainy season.
- Diverse Vehicles: Watch out for a mix of slow-moving and fast vehicles.
- Road Safety: Keep an eye out for occasional road maintenance works.
4. Airport Road
This vital road connects Dhaka city to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and is often busy with commuters and travelers. Knowing the busiest times helps in planning to avoid likely holdups.
- Flight Hours: Be aware of increased traffic during arrival and departure times.
- Airport Parking: Parking options are limited, plan accordingly.
- Security Checks: Expect some delays due to security measures near the airport.
5. Gulshan Avenue
A well-known area for business and luxury shops, with busy traffic and many pedestrians. Timing your travel through Gulshan can greatly reduce travel frustrations.
- Peak Times: Avoid travel during late afternoons when business closes.
- Parking: Limited street parking available.
- Pedestrian Zones: Many people cross the street, drive cautiously.
6. Moghbazar-Mouchak Flyover
This flyover helps in bypassing the congested streets, offering a faster route for commuters. However, it is crucial to be aware of the entry and exit points.
- Entry/Exit Points: Plan your route to use the correct entry and exit.
- Traffic Flow: Generally smoother, but can jam during peak traffic times.
- Maintenance Work: Occasionally closed for repairs, so check beforehand.
7. Mirpur Road
Crucial for those heading to educational and medical institutions, this road remains busy throughout the day. Detailed route planning helps to avoid being stuck in traffic.
- Institutional Area: Home to universities and hospitals, expect frequent traffic.
- Public Transport: Regular buses, so watch for stopping vehicles.
- Alternative Routes: Consider back roads during peak times.
8. Uttara Highway
This highway connects the northern parts of the city, often crowded with mixed-use traffic. Knowing local traffic rules can facilitate smoother navigation.
- Mixed Traffic: Prepare for many types of vehicles, including rickshaws.
- Development Zones: Ongoing constructions can alter route availability.
- Evening Traffic: Picks up with residents returning home after work.
9. Banani Road
Known for numerous restaurants and cafes, Banani often sees heavy traffic. Timing your visit can lead to a more stress-free experience.
- Dining Times: Busiest during lunch and dinner; visit outside these times.
- Parking Situation: Street parking can be tricky; paid spots fill up quickly.
- One-Way Streets: Be aware of navigation challenges in and out of Banani.
10. Dhanmondi Road
A hub for both business and leisure, Dhanmondi is frequently bustling with activity. Strategizing your visit here can cut down on travel time significantly.
- Business Hours: Entails steady visitor flow, avoid rush during office hours.
- Roadside Markets: Watch for pedestrian activity near markets.
- Public Parking: Limited availability, early arrival can secure a spot.
11. Mayor Mohammad Hanif Flyover
A key flyover that assists in bypassing Old Dhaka's crowded roads. Understanding entry points is vital for time savings.
- Historical Traffic: Old Dhaka is notoriously crowded, flyover alleviates this.
- Toll Road: Manage cash or card for toll payments.
- GPS Assistance: Essential for navigation to the correct exits.
12. Rokeya Sarani
Important for commuters traveling towards technical institutions, this road can be congested. Awareness of traffic patterns helps in a smoother journey.
- Student Traffic: Reflects academic calendars and exam times.
- Roadside Vendors: Presence can narrow road space; drive carefully.
- Traffic Signals: Regular traffic lights, be prepared to stop frequently.
13. Hatirjheel
This scenic route offers a beautiful drive beside the lake, popular for leisure and commuting alike. Be prepared for sudden spikes in traffic flow for events.
- Scenic Route: Enjoy pleasant views, but be ready for sudden stops.
- Event Traffic: Popular for gatherings, events can increase traffic.
- Environmental Zone: Respect local wildlife signs.
14. Pragati Sarani
Crucial for visitors accessing the tech and commercial areas, with steady stream of vehicles. Knowing service lanes can help in avoiding long delays.
- Office Hours: Significant increase in traffic with bustling business activities.
- Service Lane: Used to bypass heavy-traffic zones.
- Commercial Establishments: Presence increases street parking jams.
15. Purbachal Highway
A newer highway with smoother traffic flow connecting the future Purbachal city area with Dhaka. Understanding timing is key to avoid construction zones.
- Future Development: Watch for trucks and construction vehicles.
- Smooth Transit: Relatively new, providing easier drivers.
- Construction Notices: Check for any updates on lane closures.
16. Kuril Flyover
Designed to ease traffic congestion near the Kuril area, connecting commuters to Dhaka-Mymensingh highway. Entry and exit points are crucial here.
- Busy Intersections: Consider alternate routes during peak hours.
- Overhead Lanes: Keep right to use the flyover effectively.
- Wayfinding: Signs can sometimes lack clarity; use navigation apps.
17. New Elephant Road
Known for electronic markets, this area sees retail and pedestrian congestion. Planning a visit here requires patience and a strategy.
- Market Activity: Peak times mirror shop hours, avoid if in a rush.
- Pedestrian Flow: Be vigilant due to high footfall.
- Limited Parking: Nearby spaces fill quickly; public transport suggested.
18. Khilgaon Flyover
This flyover helps to redirect traffic from the Khilgaon residential community, offering a direct route to main roads without through traffic congestion.
- Community Access: Great for residents needing city access without delays.
- Exit Routes: Consider timing to avoid backtracking.
- Local Traffic: Often merges with side streets; expect quick merges.
19. Tongi Diversion Road
Frequently used by commuters to bypass city center congestion, this road can be unpredictable. Knowing alternate routes is essential.
- Variable Speeds: Be cautious of changing speed limits.
- Heavy Vehicles: Used by trucks and buses, expect slower traffic.
- Flooding Risks: Susceptible during rainstorms, plan in advance.
20. Taltola-Sadarghat Road
Essential for accessing the river port area, this road often holds heavy traffic with market-goers. Awareness of alternative pathways can reduce your travel headache.
- Port Access: Expect constant movement; early morning is busiest.
- Roadside Markets: Provide fantastic local shopping, yet cause delays.
- Market Closes: Evening times see reduced pedestrian activity, better for driving.