[1] In 2005, the World Bank published a study report, recommending that the government of Bangladesh build a mass transit system in Dhaka.

In the same year, American consultancy firm Louis Berger Group prepared a strategic transport plan for Dhaka.

[4] On 11 December 2019, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) signed a loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for pre-construction work of US$33.26 million, which was 74.60% of the required amount.

[7] The total budget of the Southern Route construction project is estimated at US$4.7 billion, of which ADB is expected to contribute 53.19%.

In March 2024, the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges submitted the proposal for the construction of the Southern Route to the Project Evaluation Committee.

[12] Later, due to criticism, its budget was reduced and as of January 2025, the authorities were thinking of sending its development project proposal to the Bangladesh Planning Commission.