Mawlana Bhashani Bridge: Incomplete Roads Risk Vehicles

Mawlana Bhashani Bridge in Kurigram opens, but incomplete approach roads put buses and trucks at risk. Completion expected by year-end.

The newly inaugurated Mawlana Bhashani Bridge in Kurigram has become a vital link for thousands of commuters and transporters. However, incomplete approach roads on the Chilmari side are creating safety concerns for vehicles, especially heavy trucks and buses.

Incomplete Roads Create Daily Risks

Approximately three The Mawlana Bhashani Bridge in Kurigram has become a key link for thousands of commuters and transporters. However, unfinished approach roads on the Chilmari side create safety risks, especially for heavy trucks and buses.

Incomplete Roads Create Daily Risks

About three kilometres of the Chilmari approach road remain unfinished. Heavy vehicles and buses face hazards while navigating this section. On August 27, heavy rainfall collapsed parts of the incomplete road. The Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) quickly carried out emergency repairs. Despite this, full carpeting and stabilization are still pending.

The Bridge Boosts Regional Connectivity

The 1,490-metre-long bridge spans the Teesta River, linking Chilmari upazila in Kurigram with Haripur in Sundarganj upazila of Gaibandha. Since its inauguration on August 20, it has reduced travel time and transportation costs for commuters traveling between Chilmari, Gaibandha, Dhaka, and other areas.

Local residents and drivers praise the bridge. Rafiqul Islam, a Chilmari resident, said, “Travel has become easier, but the unfinished road causes difficulties.” Truck driver Jahurul Haque added, “The bridge saves time and costs, but heavy trucks still risk accidents on the incomplete road.”

Progress and Challenges in Road Construction

LGED reported a total of 57 kilometres of approach roads planned for both sides of the bridge. While 51.77 km in Sundarganj are fully completed, 5.23 km in Chilmari remain unfinished.

Chilmari Upazila Engineer Julfikar Ali said, “Out of 5,230 metres of road, we carpeted 2,150 metres. Another 2,380 metres are ready for surfacing, but 700 metres faced delays due to land acquisition. Emergency repairs after rainfall have kept traffic moving safely.”

LGED Executive Engineer Uzzal Chowdhury confirmed, “We instructed the contractor to finish the remaining work quickly. The entire road will be complete by year-end.”

Project Details and Investment

China State Construction Engineering Corporation implemented the project under LGED, with funding from the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) and the Opec Fund for International Development (OFID).

The bridge includes 290 piles, 30 pillars, 28 spans, and 155 girders, along with 12 smaller bridges, 58 box culverts, and 57 km of approach roads. Authorities acquired 133 acres of land for the project.

The core bridge construction cost Tk 367 crore, and approach roads, river training, culverts, and land acquisition added Tk 363.85 crore.

Conclusion

The Mawlana Bhashani Bridge improves connectivity and reduces travel time. Completing the remaining approach roads is essential to ensure safe travel and maximize the bridge’s benefits.