Dhaka: The Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) has signed an agreement to conduct feasibility studies for the construction of second Jamuna and Padma bridges, aimed at improving the country's transport system, enhancing regional connectivity, and providing further momentum to economic activities. The agreement, titled "Consultancy Services for Feasibility Study for Construction of Second Jamuna and Padma Bridges over the River Jamuna and Padma," was signed at the conference room of the BBA.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the signing ceremony was attended by Mohammad Abdur Rouf, Secretary of the Bridges Division and Executive Director of the BBA, who served as the chief guest. Representing the BBA, Chief Engineer Md. Abul Hossain signed the agreement, while Engineer Mia Mohammad Kaiyum, Managing Director and Authorized Signatory of the consulting firm SARM Associates Limited, signed on behalf of the consultant.
During his speech, Mohammad Abdur Rouf emphasized the government's commitment to implementing various infrastructure mega projects to improve the transport sector, strengthen regional connectivity, and accelerate economic activities. He highlighted the significance of the agreement as a crucial step forward in developing the country's bridge infrastructure.
The Bridges Division Secretary noted that the construction of new bridges at suitable locations, identified through a detailed feasibility study, is a forward-looking initiative aimed at diversifying the country's transport system, enhancing regional connectivity, and spurring economic growth. He added that the proposed bridges would ease connectivity among the northern, southwestern, and central regions of the country, making transportation more efficient and reducing pressure on the existing road network.
The primary objective of the feasibility study is to identify suitable alignments and locations for constructing sustainable, safe, and economically beneficial bridges to meet the country's long-term transportation needs. The study will explore various technical and structural alternatives for bridge construction and recommend the best possible option.
The consultancy service is a collaborative effort involving Environment and Resource Management Consultant Limited (ERMC) of Nepal, Swedish National Road Consulting AB of Sweden, DASAN Consultants Co. Ltd. of South Korea, and Bangladesh's Desh Upodesh Limited (DUL) and JS SARM Associates Limited (SARM). Bangladeshi firm Tillar will participate as the sub-consultant.
As per the agreement, the feasibility study is set to be completed within 12 months. However, Mohammad Abdur Rouf encouraged the consulting firms to finish the study within eight to nine months while maintaining quality standards. The findings of the feasibility study will inform future steps regarding the construction of the two bridges, including determining suitable locations and the most appropriate technical alternatives.
Senior officials from the Bridges Division and the BBA, as well as representatives from the consulting firms, were present at the signing ceremony.