Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project
The Padma Bridge is a multipurpose road-rail bridge across the Padma River to be constructed in Bangladesh. When completed it will be the largest bridge in Bangladesh and the first fixed river crossing for road traffic. It will connect Louhajong, Munshiganj to Shariatpur and Madaripur, linking the south-west of the country, to northern and eastern regions.
The Padma Bridge, the much-awaited dream has come true. It’s a great achievement for Bangladesh. It will contribute immensely to communication, trade, industry, tourism and many other sectors in various ways. The main structure of the 6.15-kilometre long Padma Bridge was completed on December 10, 2020. The double-decker Bridge, with road and rail tracks, was estimated to cost around US$1.21 billion in 2007 but the cost has increased to US$ 3.86 billion, almost three times than the original estimate. The cost escalation could have been minimized with close monitoring and timely implementation.
The Rail Link through Padma Bridge, expected to be completed by June 2024, to improve accessibility of Dhaka with central and south western regions of the country. It will open up investment in the south and southwestern regions and will connect Bangladesh’s premier Chattogram Seaport directly with the main land port Benapole.