Dhaka Unveils South Asia’s First Highway with Solar Roof Panels

Bangladesh has inaugurated its first solar-powered expressway connecting Dhaka to Narayanganj, marking a significant milestone in South Asia’s green infrastructure development.

The 25-kilometer highway features solar panels installed along its central divider and overhead roofs, capable of generating up to 40 megawatts of electricity daily — enough to power nearby communities and reduce grid pressure.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said during the inauguration, “This project represents our vision for a cleaner, self-sufficient Bangladesh.” The initiative aligns with the government’s target to produce 10% of the nation’s energy from renewable sources by 2030. Experts praised the project as a model for eco-friendly transportation infrastructure that could inspire similar initiatives in India and Nepal.