DHAKA: Bangladesh AFTERNOON Sheikh Hasina on Saturday, inaugurated the long-awaited Padma Bridge, the country’s biggest development project since its inception in 1971, expected to give the nation’s development index a big push and direct connection of India with Dhaka, through road, rail and port. According to government estimates, the 6.2-kilometer road-railway four-lane bridge spanning the mighty Padma River is expected to directly affect the lives of at least 30 million people across the country.
The inauguration of the Padma Bridge makes a lot of sense as it is built entirely with domestic funds, despite speculation by some financial analysts if Bangladesh can raise funds depending on its resources in the future. country. In 2012, the World Bank canceled a $1.2 billion loan to build Bangladesh’s longest bridge, citing corruption that the government said was never proven.
Hasina expressed her deep gratitude to those involved in the construction of the bridge. “I’m not complaining to anyone, but I think those who oppose the construction plan and call it a ‘funny dream’ lack confidence. I hope this bridge will boost their confidence. “, she said. “This bridge is not just brick, cement, iron and concrete. This bridge is our pride, a symbol of our capacity, strength and dignity.”
The Embassy of India congratulated the achievement, the Indian embassy said: “The completion of this highly awaited project is a testament to the Prime Minister’s courageous and visionary decision. General Sheikh Hasina. was firmly supported …”
Dhaka’s distance from the Indian border at Benapole by road will now be reduced by 70 km and travel time by 4.30 hours. It will also halve the time of the Kolkata-Dhaka train journey. The Padma Bridge, connecting India, Nepal, China, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand, will be a key link of the Trans-Asia Highway Network (TAHN). Of TAHN’s 16 overland routes, three run through Bangladesh. The rail link will connect the other two lines.
The inauguration of the Padma Bridge makes a lot of sense as it is built entirely with domestic funds, despite speculation by some financial analysts if Bangladesh can raise funds depending on its resources in the future. country. In 2012, the World Bank canceled a $1.2 billion loan to build Bangladesh’s longest bridge, citing corruption that the government said was never proven.
Hasina expressed her deep gratitude to those involved in the construction of the bridge. “I’m not complaining to anyone, but I think those who oppose the construction plan and call it a ‘funny dream’ lack confidence. I hope this bridge will boost their confidence. “, she said. “This bridge is not just brick, cement, iron and concrete. This bridge is our pride, a symbol of our capacity, strength and dignity.”
The Embassy of India congratulated the achievement, the Indian embassy said: “The completion of this highly awaited project is a testament to the Prime Minister’s courageous and visionary decision. General Sheikh Hasina. was firmly supported …”
Dhaka’s distance from the Indian border at Benapole by road will now be reduced by 70 km and travel time by 4.30 hours. It will also halve the time of the Kolkata-Dhaka train journey. The Padma Bridge, connecting India, Nepal, China, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand, will be a key link of the Trans-Asia Highway Network (TAHN). Of TAHN’s 16 overland routes, three run through Bangladesh. The rail link will connect the other two lines.
