Obaidul Quader
Caretaker govt system laid to rest in Azimpur graveyard: Quader
Awami League General Secretary and Bangladesh's Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Thursday (October 19, 2023) said the caretaker government system has been laid to rest in Azimpur graveyard.
"Why would the prime minister resign? Don't call for the caretaker government again. The path that BNP is taking is the wrong path. BNP is now on the verge of collapse after a failed movement,” he said.
Also read: BNP will be blocked if it enforces blockades: Obaidul Quader
Quader was speaking after the inauguration of 150 bridges and 14 overpasses at Sharak Bhaban in Dhaka's Tejgaon on Thursday morning.
In his speech, the AL leader highlighted the development of Bangladesh in the last 15 years and said that this transformation is considered a marvel by the world. “This has been possible due to the creative leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.”
Also read: BNP wants to indulge in evil game of 1/11 with Dr Yunus at the helm: Quader
"If you want to protect the development of this country, the achievements of this country, the democracy of this country, if you love the country, then there is no alternative to Sheikh Hasina," he added.
“Don't they see that the Prime Minister of Britain respects the Prime Minister of Bangladesh? The President of the United States took photos at the G-20 (with Sheikh Hasina) and also in New York,” he said.
Also read: BNP is not happy with good news of increase in remittances: Quader
Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan; Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, Begum Raushan Ara Mannan, spoke on the occasion, among others.
Election won’t stop for any political party: Quader
The next national election of Bangladesh will be held as per the constitution under the independent Election Commission, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has said.
“The election won’t stop for any political party. There are multiple political parties who want to join the election. Why do you think that election won’t be acceptable if one or two parties do not participate? To participate in the election is a political right, and if a party doesn’t use it, that’s up to them,” he said.
The Road Transport and Bridges Minister came up with the remarks while talking to reporters after placing a wreath on the grave of Sheikh Russel at Banani Graveyard in Dhaka. Today (October 18, 2023) marks the 60th birth anniversary of the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Next polls will be held as per constitution: Obaidul Quader
“The law enforcing agencies are arresting those who were involved in arson, vandalism and were accused in arms and murder cases,” Quader said.
Khandaker Mushtaq and Ziaur Rahman had started the politics of murder and conspiracy in the country in 1975 and their successor BNP is still continuing it, said the Awami League leader.
Obaidul Quader says dragging out dead caretaker system will bring no gain
Expressing the determination to eradicate the politics of murder and conspiracy under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, he said, “Our fight will continue until we make the country safe and livable for innocent children like Sheikh Russel.”
Awami League leaders and activists led by its general secretary placed wreaths on the grave of Sheikh Russel and offered munajat there.
Game to be played in October, December, and in first week of January: Obaidul Quader
Dhaka residents to make BNP obsolete if it comes to paralyse the city: Quader
Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Monday (October 09, 2023) said the people of Dhaka would make BNP obsolete if it comes to paralyse the city.
“BNP said it will paralyse Dhaka city in October. The people of Dhaka will paralyse them (BNP) instead. They said to shut the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. If they jump and dance too much, we’ll put Russian uranium on their heads and cool it down,” he said.
Also read: Uphold non-communal spirit of Liberation War, says Quader
Quader was speaking at a peace rally organised by Dhaka Metropolitan North Awami League at Gabtoli in the capital on Monday afternoon.
He warned BNP that it will not be good to jump too much.
Also read: Not leaving the country in the hands of Pakistan’s friends: Quader
The road transport and bridges minister said, “People are suffering due to the rise in commodity prices due to the global crisis. Sheikh Hasina is sleepless thinking about the people.”
“Things cost more, but not a single person died without eating. If people live, Bangladesh will survive, Awami League will live, and the Liberation War will live,” he also said.
Also read: General Election to be held as per constitution: Obaidul Quader
Awami League Presidium Member Jahangir Kabir Nanak, Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, among others, addressed the rally with Dhaka City North AL President Sheikh Bazlur Rahman in the chair.
‘Wasn’t wrong when I said lot going on behind the scenes’: Quader
Road Transport and Bridges Minister and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today (October 05, 2023) said that he was not wrong when he said “a lot is going on behind the scenes.”
He said this while exchanging views with journalists at the conference room of the Road Transport and Highways Department, at the Secretariat.
Also read: No worries over visa policy, PM reached understanding with all: Quader
Regarding his earlier remark that there has been some “agreement or consensus”, Quader said, “The issue of rumours and propaganda in our country has become rampant. According to rumours, the relationship between Bangladesh and the United States has deteriorated. Such rumours and misinformation have spread widely. This is not desirable at this time.”
“Don’t you understand what I said? No one was aware for a week about the meeting with the US security adviser. So, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes, and I wasn’t wrong,” Quader added.
Also read: Hasina and Biden have discussed importance of free, fair elections in Bangladesh as well as improving relations
During her recent visit to Washington DC, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina held a meeting with US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan.
“Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her daughter took a selfie with Joe Biden. That was being discussed. There was still some talk. Reaching consensus behind the scenes means improving relations. That’s what I meant,” the AL leader clarified.
When pointed out that many are taking the “behind the scenes” expression negatively, he said, “If anyone wants to take it negatively, it is up to them. At public rallies, people want excitement… which is why exciting words like “toley toley”, “khela hobe” are used.”
Also read: Bangladesh not safe in BNP's hands: Quader
Responding to a question on relationship with China, Quader said, “China has a role to play in our development activities. We can’t bypass that. We are taking their help.”
Bangabandhu Tunnel awaits inauguration; toll rates finalised
The Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, running beneath the Karnaphuli River in Chattogram, is now awaiting inauguration, with the primary construction phase successfully concluded.
The main tunnel is fully equipped and prepared for vehicular movement. This historic project marks the country's first-ever underwater tunnel, and preparations for its grand inauguration are underway.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the tunnel in Chattogram on October 28. Marking the occasion, the prime minister will address a rally at the Anwara end of the tunnel.
Also read: Uttara to Motijheel in 38 mins once part of Metro Rail from Agargaon opens on Oct 20
Commencing from the following day, the tunnel will be open for vehicular traffic, providing a significant transportation milestone for the region.
In this regard, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said the primary construction phase of the tunnel has been successfully concluded.
“Presently, the focus is on resolving technical matters within the tunnel. The inauguration of this remarkable project heralds Bangladesh's entry into the era of underwater tunnels,” said Quader.
This ‘monumental achievement’ will usher in a new era of communication within the country, marking a source of immense national pride, he added.
Also read: After 10 years of delay, Mongla-Khulna rail line likely to open in October
The Bridges Division Secretary Md. Manzur Hossain told UNB that the primary tunnel is fully ready for vehicular traffic.
“Ongoing efforts encompass various aspects, including the establishment of essential infrastructure such as fire service and police station buildings. The overall progress of the tunnel project stands at 98 percent,” he said.
"Our activities will continue even after the inauguration. It has been discussed to establish a police station, a dumping area, and a station, and the space is available for that. Those who are involved in the operation and those who will perform maintenance will have their own vehicles," he added.
The secretary said that the traffic division has devised a dedicated plan for managing the flow of traffic both within and around the tunnel area, aiming to ensure seamless transportation.
Inside the tunnel, vehicles will be able to run at a speed of 80 kilometres per hour.
It has been decided which vehicles will run in the tunnel. Tolls have also been fixed, said the Bridges secretary (see bolow).
Also read: HSIA Terminal 3: Final preparations on course for Oct 7 inauguration
“The concept of the tunnel is new to us. That's why it has some challenges. It is different from other bridges or roads. In that case, we have to make sure that the tunnel will be safe and those who use it will also be safe,” said Hossain, adding, “From that perspective, I don't think it's safe for two- or three-wheelers at the moment.”
Harun-ur-Rashid, project director of the tunnel, told UNB that the scope of Chittagong city will increase once the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman tunnel is opened.
"Chittagong city marks one end of the tunnel, while the other end leads to Anwara Upazila. The development of tunnels is transforming Anwara into a burgeoning city. Concurrently, the land prices in Anwara Upazila have seen a substantial increase."
Numerous industries, both large and small, are emerging on both sides of the road leading to the tunnel's terminus in Anwara Upazila.
When the tunnel becomes operational, it will reduce the Karnaphuli River crossing time to just three minutes.
As time is of the essence, the economy is expected to thrive. The tunnel is poised to bring about a transformative change in road connectivity between the capital, Dhaka, and Chittagong city, as well as the tourist destination of Cox's Bazar.
Also read: Dhaka-Bhanga railway track via Padma bridge all set for trial run on Thursday
The main tunnel spans a length of 3.32 kilometres, with each of the two four-lane tubes measuring 2.45 kilometres.
Additionally, there will be a 5.35 km link road at both the west and east ends of the main tunnel, along with a 727-metre-long flyover at the Anwara end.
The tunnel is situated at a depth ranging from 18 to 31 metres beneath the Karnaphuli River.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina initiated the commencement of boring for the first or northern tunnel from Patenga to Anwara on February 24, 2019.
The loan agreement had been signed on June 30, 2015, following a feasibility study of the project in 2011 and a Memorandum of Understanding in 2014.
Construction work officially began on December 5, 2017, following the appointment of the contractor.
This project is jointly funded by the Governments of Bangladesh and China (G2G), with a total cost of Tk 10,698 crore. The construction work for the tunnel is being carried out by the China Communication and Construction Company Limited (CCCC).
The Government of Bangladesh is executing this project with the aim of creating a 'One City Two Towns' concept, similar to Shanghai in China, on either side of the Karnaphuli River.
Also read: Elevated expressway marks first of 9 megaprojects to be inaugurated before election
A total of 12 types of vehicles will be subject to toll charges when using the 3.43 km long Bangabandhu Tunnel. The minimum toll fee has been set at Tk200, applicable to private cars. Pickup trucks will also be charged Tk200 for each crossing, while microbuses will be charged Tk250.
Buses with fewer than 31 seats will incur a toll of Tk300, while those with more than 32 seats will pay Tk400. Big buses with three axles will be charged a toll of Tk500.
The toll for trucks capable of carrying goods up to five tonnes has been fixed at Tk400. Eight-ton trucks will have to pay Tk500 and 11-ton trucks will have to pay Tk600. A three-axle container trailer will cost Tk800.
A four-axle trailer will cost Tk1,000. However, an additional Tk200 will have to be paid for each additional axle.
The toll rate will come into effect on the day the tunnel is opened for vehicular movement.
Read more: Toll rates fixed for Karnaphuli tunnel
‘Bangladesh has gone into the sphere of great power. It's about friendship, not enmity’: Quader
Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Saturday (September 09, 2023) said Bangladesh has gone into the sphere of great power.
He said this while addressing a peace rally organized by Dhaka Metropolitan South Awami League at Bangabandhu Avenue in the capital on Saturday afternoon. The rally was held to protest against BNP-Jamaat's terrorism, militancy, anarchy, and continued anti-national conspiracies.
Also read: BNP starts ‘new game’ using Dr Yunus: Quader
“What will happen to the BNP now after seeing Joe Biden's selfie with Sheikh Hasina at the G20 summit? It's not a fall, it's a retreat. Now we just have to go backwards. Where did their waves go? I don't think people will come to their (BNP’s) mass rallies anymore,” said the AL leader.
“BNP has brought an epidemic of lies across the country. Their leaders in villages also lie,” he said.
Urging the party leaders and workers to be ready, the Awami League general secretary said, “The peace rally will continue till the next election. BNP leaders and activists are now seeing darkness. Not a single one will sleep at night. The night's sleep has been forbidden.”
Also read: BNP wants to indulge in evil game of 1/11 with Dr Yunus at the helm: Quader
“BNP talks about movement but preparing for elections. Candidates will be given in all seats. If there is no candidate, how will Tarique Rahman's nomination business be done? BNP has lost the game. Only elections are left. They will also lose the final,” said Quader.
Awami League Presidium Member Matia Chowdhury, Advocate Kamrul Islam, Dr Mostafa Jalal Mohiuddin, among others, spoke at the rally.
Also read: BNP is not happy with good news of increase in remittances: Quader
Metro Rail and Padma Bridge prove AL believes in deeds, not words: Quader
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Friday said the Awami League government has already proved that it believes in deeds and not words by implementing metro rail and Padma bridge.
“Due to the government's development programmes for the country, AL's public support has increased more than before,” he said this while visiting the old trade fair ground on the eve of the inauguration of the Kaola- Farmgate section of Dhaka Elevated Expressway.
Read : BNP tries to shift blame of enforced disappearances, killings to government: Quader
PM Hasina is scheduled to inaugurate the expressway on Saturday. It will then be opened to commuters on Sunday, according to project officials.
“AL government has proved through development activities that it keeps its words,” added Quader, also the General Secretary of the ruling party.
Read : BNP’s 45th founding anniversary Friday
"Far from toppling the government, the BNP is worried about its own existential crisis," the AL leader said.
“Awami League is on alert to protect the lives and property of the people against terrorism or violence in the name of movement,” he said.
Read : Conspirators getting ready before next election: Obaidul Quader
BNP leaders and workers do not have faith in the party’s programmes. It is not possible to wage a movement with black flags, added Quader. "It becomes a mourining procession."
What are the toll rates for Dhaka Elevated Expressway?
Bangladesh's Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on August 20, 2023 announced the toll rates for Dhaka Elevated Expressway, partially opening today (September 02, 2023).
Tolls will be collected from vehicles plying the expressway in four categories, the minister said in a press briefing at the conference room of the Ministry of Road, Transport and Bridges in Secretariat on Sunday.
Also read: Dhaka Elevated Expressway’s airport to Farmgate section to be inaugurated by PM on Sept 2
Private cars, microbuses (<16 seats) and mini-trucks (<3 tonnes) will have to pay Tk 80, medium-sized trucks (up to 6 wheels) and large trucks with more than 6 wheels will pay Tk 320 and Tk 400 respectively.
Meanwhile, all buses and minibuses with 16 or more seats will have to pay Tk 160 to ply the Kawla-Farmgate section of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway.
Also read: PM to inaugurate Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail on Oct 20
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the 11.5 km section of the much anticipated Dhaka Elevated Expressway on September 2. A rally will be held at the old trade fair ground in Dhaka’s Agargaon marking the inauguration.
Also read: Toll rates fixed for Karnaphuli tunnel
PM to inaugurate Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail on Oct 20
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail on October 20, Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said today (August 20, 2023).
A rally will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital at 3pm on October 20, marking the inauguration, the minister said while exchanging views with journalists at the conference room of the Road, Transport and Bridges Ministry in the Secretariat.
Also read: First phase of Metro Rail test run from Agargaon to Motijheel underway
Meanwhile, the 11.5 km stretch of Dhaka Elevated Expressway, from Kawla to Farmgate, will be opened on September 2. On this occasion, a rally will be held at the old trade fair ground in Dhaka’s Agargaon.
The construction work of the northern route of MRT Line 5 will be inaugurated on September 16, Quader also said.
Also read: Metro rail service resumes after two hours of suspension
On October 28, a rally will be held in Chattogram’s Anwara upazila to mark the inauguration of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will virtually inaugurate 140 bridges, 12 overpasses across the country from the newly-constructed Sarak Bhaban in Dhaka on October 22. A vehicle inspection centre will also be inaugurated at the same time.
Also read: PM to inaugurate Agargaon-Motijheel section of Dhaka Metro Rail in Oct: Quader
BNP initiated politics of murder and conspiracy in Bangladesh, resist them: Quader
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Tuesday (August 08, 2023) said that the “evil force” called BNP must be resisted to keep the values of Liberation War and democracy safe in Bangladesh.
Quader made the remark after paying tribute to Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib on her 94th birth anniversary at Dhaka’s Banani graveyard this morning.
Read: AL delegation to leave Dhaka for New Delhi on Sunday
The road, transport and bridges minister said, “Politics of murder and conspiracy started in the country since the brutal assassinations of Bangabandhu on August 15 and four national leaders on November 3 in 1975. The grenade attack on August 21, 2004, primarily targeting Bangabandhu's daughter Sheikh Hasina, was a continuation of that.”
“Twenty-three lives were lost, including Ivy Rahman, in that grenade attack. BNP was behind this history of bloodbath. This party initiated the politics of murder and conspiracy in Bangladesh,” Quader added.
Read: AL can achieve the impossible if it stays united: Information Minister
Obaidul Quader also said Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib is one of the most remarkable women in Bangladesh’s history. “From Sheikh Mujib to Bangabandhu, from Bangabandhu to the Father of the Nation – Begum Mujib was not only Bangabandhu’s wife, she was also a dedicated partner in all the struggles,” he said.