Tejgaon airstrip stands as a silent testament to Dhaka’s urban challenges. Once the nation’s primary international gateway, it now serves as a military base with no commercial flights. However, its dormant status continues to impede the city’s growth. In 2011, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) re-designated it as a “domestic airport,” a move that has led to significant urban planning challenges.
Impact of Tejgaon Airstrip
The most notable impact of this decision is the obstruction of the metro rail route along Bijoy Sarani. Due to the airstrip’s re-designation, the metro line had to be realigned near the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, leading to increased costs and delays. This situation underscores how a non-operational airstrip can have far-reaching consequences on urban infrastructure projects.
Moreover, the presence of the Tejgaon airstrip runway has led to regulatory challenges. Since 2011, the CAAB has identified at least 525 illegal high-rises encroaching on approach paths at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) and the old Tejgaon Airport runway. These violations have been reported to the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) for over a decade, yet no demolition has occurred, resulting in Dhaka’s airspace being transformedinto a hazardous zone.
The Tejgaon airport’s underutilization also represents a missed opportunity for urban development. Repurposing the area for commercial or residential use could alleviate pressure on other parts of the city and contribute to balanced urban growth.
What’s Next Regarding Tejgaon Airstrip
In conclusion, the Tejgaon airfield‘s current status as a dormant military base continues to hinder Dhaka’s development. Addressing this issue requires a reevaluation of its designation and potential repurposing to better serve the city’s needs.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 13th, 2025
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