Padma Bridge

The Padma Bridge is the largest and most ambitious infrastructure project in the history of Bangladesh. It stands as a symbol of national pride, self-reliance, and determination. The bridge, officially known as the Padma Multipurpose Bridge, has been built entirely with Bangladesh’s own funding, without any foreign financial assistance. It is a dream project that connects the southwestern region of the country with the capital and other major areas, creating new opportunities for trade, communication, and development.

The bridge is made of concrete and steel, ensuring strong durability and stability. Its total length is 6.15 kilometers and the width is 16.10 meters. The bridge connects Mawa in Munshiganj district to Jajira in Shariatpur district. It has two layers – the upper level has a four-lane highway, while the lower level has a single railway track. This multipurpose structure will also carry gas, electricity transmission lines, and fiber-optic cables, which will help expand communication and power networks in the country.

The design and supervision of the bridge were completed by a team of both local and international experts led by ECOM. The China Major Bridge Engineering Company, a subsidiary of the China Railway Group Limited, was the main contractor responsible for the construction work. The foundation stone of the project was laid on December 12, 2015, and large-scale construction officially began on December 6, 2014. By November 2020, about 92% of the work had been completed. Later, it was announced that the bridge would be opened for public use in 2022.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be over Tk 30,000 crore. Upon completion, the Padma Bridge directly benefits about 30 million people, covering nearly 44,000 square kilometers, which accounts for 29% of Bangladesh’s total land area. It will have a massive impact on the economic, social, and industrial development of the southern region of the country. By reducing travel time and transportation costs, it will boost trade and regional connectivity between South Asia and Southeast Asia, promoting regional cooperation and prosperity.

Although there were initial obstacles due to allegations of corruption which led the World Bank and other donors to withdraw, the Government of Bangladesh took a bold decision to continue the project with its own resources. This move became a matter of great national pride. The successful construction of the Padma Bridge proves Bangladesh’s capability to handle mega projects independently.

The completion of the Padma Bridge marks a new chapter in the country’s development journey. It not only connects people and regions but also strengthens the confidence of the nation. The bridge truly stands as a symbol of courage, hope, and progress, showing the world that Bangladesh can turn its dreams into reality through determination and unity.