The Dhaka-Chattogram Highway, a lifeline for the country’s trade and commerce, has been plagued by cracks and potholes, particularly along its Cumilla segment, causing serious disruptions to traffic and posing risks to road users.
The 105-kilometre stretch from Chauddagram to Daudkandi in Cumilla is in an alarming state, with key sections in Chauddagram Upazila, including Noapara, caving in.
Besides, parts of the two-lane road from Nischintapur to the Cantonment area in Adarsha Sadar Upazila have sustained severe damage.
This deterioration has forced drivers of various vehicles, particularly goods-laden ones, to proceed cautiously, resulting in slower traffic and frequent gridlocks.
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Locals report that traffic snarls and dust pollution have become a daily ordeal for commuters.
In the Chandina Bus Stand area, a major portion of the road has collapsed, exacerbating commuter misery.
Beyond the highway, other regional roads in Cumilla are also in disrepair.
The 40-kilometre Cumilla-Sylhet Regional Highway and the 30-kilometre Cumilla-Chandpur Regional Highway are riddled with potholes and narrow stretches, making travel challenging for both drivers and passengers.
Impact on Commuters and Drivers
Jamil Ahmed Khandaker, president of the Cumilla Motor Association (Bus Owners’ Association), highlighted the severity of the situation, saying, “Several parts of the highway in Cumilla are damaged, causing immense suffering for both drivers and passengers.”
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He called upon authorities to initiate immediate repair work.
Abul Hossain, a minibus driver on the Cumilla-Sylhet Regional Highway, described the daily struggles, saying, “The narrow roads, combined with heavy traffic and potholes, have become a constant challenge for drivers.”
Abdullah Al Maruf, a passenger from Mujaffarganj, pointed out that while the Cumilla section of the Cumilla-Chandpur Regional Highway is relatively less damaged, the Chandpur section makes travelling extremely difficult.
Government Response
Suniti Chakma, executive engineer of the Cumilla Roads and Highways Department, acknowledged the issue, attributing the damage to recent floods and heavy rainfall.
“We plan to begin repair work within 15 days,” she assured.
Economic Significance of Dhaka-Ctg Highway
The Dhaka-Chattogram Highway serves as the primary artery connecting Dhaka with Chattogram, the country's largest port and commercial hub.
This highway facilitates the transport of goods essential for industries such as garments, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture, which rely heavily on Chattogram Port for exports and imports.
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Some 80% of Bangladesh’s international trade flows through this route, underlining its critical importance for sustaining the nation’s economic growth.
Ensuring proper maintenance of the highway is imperative for reducing traffic congestion and preserving its efficiency as a trade corridor.
Without prompt action, the current state of disrepair threatens not only road safety but also the country’s economic momentum, locals and businesspeople said.