Project Idea: Gabtoli Transit Hub: A Multi-Modal Nexus

Introduction
The Gabtoli Transit Hub project envisions transforming one of Dhaka’s most congested and strategically important transportation nodes into an efficient, well-integrated multi-modal nexus. The proposal aims to address the critical transportation and urban challenges of Dhaka by introducing a holistic design solution that enhances connectivity, reduces congestion, and improves user experience while preserving the socio-economic vibrancy of the area.

Context
Gabtoli, situated in the northern gateway of Dhaka, serves as a major entry and exit point for inter-district buses. It plays a pivotal role in the daily commute of thousands of people. However, the current terminal is plagued by severe congestion, lack of proper facilities, and unorganized vehicular circulation. The government and JICA have proposed relocating the terminal, but this solution overlooks the critical importance of Gabtoli’s existing socio-economic ecosystem. This project argues for retaining the terminal at its current location and redesigning it to resolve existing issues without displacement.

Goals and Objectives

Enhanced Connectivity:

Integrate various modes of transport, including inter-district buses, local buses, taxis, and non-motorized vehicles, into a cohesive system.

Facilitate seamless transfers between different modes of transport through well-planned circulation routes.

Traffic Congestion Mitigation:

Introduce efficient vehicular flow management by segregating arrival, departure, and parking zones.

Employ multiple server points to reduce queuing times and eliminate bottlenecks.

User Experience Improvement:

Provide safe, comfortable, and accessible facilities for passengers, including waiting areas, ticketing zones, and pedestrian pathways.

Design for inclusivity by ensuring access for people with disabilities and families.

Sustainability:

Incorporate sustainable building practices and materials.

Introduce green spaces and promote non-motorized transport to improve the environmental quality of the area.

Preservation of Socio-Economic Fabric:

Retain the existing informal economy around the terminal, including small vendors and local businesses.

Ensure that the design supports the livelihoods of those dependent on the terminal.

Design Solution
The proposed design solution involves a multi-level transit hub with dedicated zones for different functions:

Ground Level: Arrival and departure platforms with clear segregation for inter-district and local buses.

Intermediate Levels: Parking facilities, retail zones, and administrative offices.

Upper Levels: Passenger amenities, including food courts, restrooms, and prayer areas.

Roof: Green terraces and recreational spaces for passengers.

Additionally, pedestrian bridges and underpasses will be introduced to ensure safe crossings and improve pedestrian flow. The design incorporates advanced traffic management systems and real-time information displays to enhance operational efficiency.

Conclusion
The Gabtoli Transit Hub: A Multi-Modal Nexus project presents a sustainable, context-sensitive solution to Dhaka’s transportation challenges. By retaining the terminal at its current location and enhancing its functionality, the project aims to provide long-term benefits in terms of connectivity, urban livability, and socio-economic development. It underscores the potential of thoughtful architectural interventions to transform existing urban problems into opportunities for growth and progress.

Project Description

Scope of the Project Solution
The scope of the project solution encompasses an integrated multi-modal transit hub designed to accommodate and streamline the movement of various types of vehicles, including buses, cars, and non-motorized transports. The key components of the project include:

Vehicular and Pedestrian Flow Optimization:

Separate and dedicated lanes for different modes of transport to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Pedestrian-friendly zones with safe crossings and dedicated walkways to enhance commuter safety.

Infrastructure Development:

Construction of multi-level platforms and terminals to handle peak passenger demand efficiently.

Provision of ample parking facilities for buses, private vehicles, and taxis.

Smart Transportation Management:

Implementation of real-time information systems for vehicle scheduling and passenger updates.

Automated ticketing and boarding systems are used to reduce delays and improve service efficiency.

Environmental and Social Sustainability:

Incorporation of green roofs, vertical gardens, and renewable energy solutions to reduce the environmental footprint.

Development of community spaces and commercial zones to support local businesses and enhance user experience.

Accessibility and Inclusivity:

Ensuring that all facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Provide family amenities, including rest areas, children’s play zones, and nursing rooms.

Simio Simulation Analysis
The design process included rigorous Simio simulation to model existing congestion patterns and evaluate proposed solutions. Key findings from the Simio analysis include:

Existing Scenario:

The current terminal experiences significant bottlenecks due to a single server point for vehicle arrivals, leading to queuing delays and operational inefficiency.

Peak demand analysis indicated long queues and extended waiting times during rush hours.

Proposed Design Simulation:

The proposed design introduces multiple server points for arrival, parking, and departure, effectively eliminating bottlenecks.

With separate servers, the analysis demonstrated no significant queuing issues under peak demand conditions.

For a peak demand of 16 buses departing simultaneously, the proposed space can accommodate up to 32 buses, ensuring operational flexibility.

Optimization Results:

Priority queuing based on bus type or operator further enhanced flow efficiency.

Average waiting times were reduced by 40% compared to the existing scenario.

The Simio analysis validated the effectiveness of the proposed design in reducing congestion, improving traffic flow, and ensuring a better passenger experience.

This comprehensive approach ensures that the Gabtoli Transit Hub will resolve existing transportation issues and serve as a model for future transit-oriented developments in Bangladesh.

Technical Information

General Specifications:

Project Type: Multi-modal transit hub

Location: Gabtoli, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Site Area: 22 acres

Building Typology: Mixed-use transportation infrastructure

Capacity: Designed to handle up to 100,000 passengers daily

Structural Design:

Primary Structure: Reinforced concrete frame

Secondary Structure: Steel trusses for roof and pedestrian bridges

Flooring: High-strength, non-slip concrete with integrated drainage

Roof: Green roof with solar panels and rainwater collection systems for non-potable use

Circulation and Traffic Management:

Arrival/Departure Platforms: Segregated zones for inter-district and local buses

Parking Facilities: Multi-level parking for buses and private vehicles with a total capacity of 1,500 vehicles

Pedestrian Access: Elevated pedestrian bridges and underpasses for safe crossing

Smart Systems:

Traffic Control: Automated traffic light coordination and priority signals for buses

Information Systems: Real-time digital displays for bus schedules and announcements

Ticketing: Contactless smart card system for seamless passenger movement

Sustainability Features:

Energy Efficiency: Use of LED lighting and energy-efficient HVAC systems

Renewable Energy: On-site solar power generation covering up to 20% of energy needs

Water Management: Greywater recycling and water-efficient fixtures

Green Spaces: Landscaped public areas, vertical gardens, and tree-lined pathways

Safety and Security:

Surveillance: 24/7 CCTV monitoring with a centralized control room

Emergency Services: Firefighting system with dedicated water reservoir and fire escape routes on all levels

First Aid: Medical clinic and first-aid stations strategically located throughout the hub

This technical specification ensures that the Gabtoli Transit Hub is equipped with the necessary infrastructure, smart systems, and sustainable features to meet the demands of a growing urban population while ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.