The government is going to build a cable-stayed bridge, first of its kind in the country, the visually stunning Matlab-Gazaria Bridge, connecting Matlab Uttar in Chandpur with Gazaria in Munshiganj across the Meghna-Dhonagoda River.
Officials involved with the project say the bridge will stand as a remarkable symbol of modern engineering, ensuring both environmental sustainability and navigational safety.
The Bridge Division under the Ministry of Road, Transport and Bridges has given top priority to the bridge’s design, environmental considerations, and preservation of river navigability, according to a team of experts visiting the site.
On Thursday afternoon, Bridge Division Secretary and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bridge Authority Mohammad Abdur Rouf visited the project site to inspect the progress of land acquisition and road connection works.
He said that land acquisition and detailed design work are nearing completion. “The government has placed this project among its key priorities,” Rouf told UNB, expressing optimism that construction could begin in the first half of next year.
Once completed, the bridge will not only improve regional connectivity but also facilitate the construction of a four-lane road atop the Meghna-Dhonagoda embankment under the irrigation project, he said.
This road will serve as a faster and shorter alternative route from Chandpur to Feni and Chattogram, effectively acting as a bypass for the N-1 National Highway, the secretary said.
Rouf added that funding for the project under South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) has made significant progress, with the preliminary agreement framework finalized.
He noted that tenders will be invited and construction will start as soon as the funds are released, calling for the cooperation of all related departments and stakeholders.
Joint Secretary of the Bridges Division Md Bhikaroddoula Chowdhury told UNB that the 1.85-kilometer-long bridge will be entirely eco-friendly. To preserve river flow, a 25-meter vertical clearance will be maintained, allowing smooth passage of vessels during tides.
The bridge will feature a six-lane connecting road, including a four-lane main carriageway and two service lanes.
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Besides, around 2.5 kilometers of river training work will be carried out to maintain navigability, prevent erosion, and ensure the bridge’s longevity.
Chowdhury also mentioned that the existing Meghna-Dhonagoda embankment will be widened and upgraded into a durable roadway.
The inspection visit was attended by senior officials of the Bridge Division, Project Director Md Abul Hossain, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mahmuda Kulsum Moni, Assistant Commissioner (Land), and officials from the Roads and Highways Department.