Indian engineering and construction company Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured major contracts for the Dhaka Metro Line 1 project in Bangladesh, strengthening its presence in the country’s urban transportation sector.
The orders come as India and Bangladesh work towards improving bilateral relations, with infrastructure development creating new opportunities for business cooperation.
L&T’s Transportation Infrastructure division will handle important railway systems for Bangladesh’s first underground metro project.
L&T Secures Two Major Metro Contracts
Larsen & Toubro has received two Design and Build contracts from Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) for the Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit Development Project Line 1.
The contracts cover two major packages.
The first, Contract Package CP09, includes railway track construction and electrical systems.
The second, Contract Package CP10, covers signalling, telecommunications and platform screen doors.
Together, these systems will support the safe and efficient operation of Dhaka Metro Line 1.
L&T classifies contracts worth more than ₹5,000 crore as major orders. However, the company has not disclosed the exact combined value of these two contracts.
Bangladesh Plans Major Metro Rail Expansion
Bangladesh is moving forward with plans to improve public transportation in Dhaka through several large metro rail projects.
The government has outlined three metro projects with a combined estimated investment of Tk 2.5 trillion.
Bangladesh’s Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) has also approved 12 development projects with a combined estimated cost of Tk 1.69 trillion, including metro rail projects.
The investments are aimed at improving public transportation, reducing traffic congestion and supporting environmentally friendly travel in the capital.
Dhaka Metro Line 1 to Cover 31 Kilometres
The Dhaka Metro Line 1 project is being funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The new metro network will extend approximately 31 kilometres and include 19 stations.
It will have two main routes.
The Airport Route will connect Kamalapur with the airport, while the Purbachal Route will run from Natun Bazar to Purbachal Terminal.
The project will also include a metro depot at Pitalganj.
Once operational, the network is expected to improve connectivity between major residential, commercial and transport locations in Dhaka.
L&T Partners With Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation
Under Contract Package CP09, L&T will work with Japanese company Sumitomo Corporation to develop the metro’s track and electrical infrastructure.
The work will include designing, supplying, installing, testing and commissioning railway tracks, power supply systems, traction substations and overhead electrical equipment.
The companies will also develop associated electrical facilities required for metro operations.
Under Contract Package CP10, L&T will be responsible for installing signalling systems, telecommunications equipment and platform screen doors across the network.
These systems are essential for train movement, passenger communication and platform safety.
L&T Previously Worked on Dhaka Metro Line 6
The new contracts follow L&T’s earlier involvement in Bangladesh’s first operational metro corridor, Dhaka Metro Line 6.
The company successfully delivered the integrated railway systems package for Line 6, which is now operating commercially.
Ramkumar S, Senior Vice President and Head of Transportation Infrastructure at L&T, said the repeat orders demonstrate the company’s experience in handling large urban rail projects.
He highlighted L&T’s previous work on Dhaka Metro Line 6 and its ongoing involvement in the Jakarta Metro project.
According to him, this experience will help the company coordinate different railway systems and deliver the new project efficiently.
Japan Supports Bangladesh’s Infrastructure Development
Japan is playing an important role in Bangladesh’s infrastructure expansion through financial assistance and business partnerships.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency is funding Dhaka Metro Line 1, while Japanese company Sumitomo Corporation will work with L&T on the project’s railway and electrical systems.
Separately, Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has invited Japanese investors, companies and financial institutions to explore new business opportunities in Bangladesh.
During his visit to Tokyo, Rahman met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and encouraged greater Japanese participation in Bangladesh’s economic development.
The developments highlight Japan’s involvement in supporting Bangladesh’s infrastructure and investment plans.
Improving Public Transportation in Dhaka
Dhaka faces significant traffic congestion, making modern public transportation an important part of the city’s development plans.
The new metro project is expected to provide commuters with a faster and more reliable alternative to road travel.
The underground sections will also help expand transportation capacity in heavily developed parts of the city.
By improving connections between residential areas, business centres and the airport, Dhaka Metro Line 1 is expected to make daily travel more convenient.
Strengthening India-Bangladesh Business Ties
L&T’s latest contracts highlight the role of Indian engineering companies in major infrastructure projects outside India.
The company’s continued participation in Bangladesh’s metro development also reflects ongoing commercial cooperation between the two countries.
With support from Japan and technical expertise from L&T and Sumitomo Corporation, Dhaka Metro Line 1 is expected to become an important addition to Bangladesh’s public transportation network.
The project aims to improve urban mobility, strengthen transport infrastructure and support long-term economic development in Dhaka.
