Chattogram:The government is incurring monthly losses of Tk 3.58 crore to Tk 4 crore on the Karnaphuli Tunnel, constructed at a cost of Tk 10,374 crore beneath the Karnaphuli River in Chattogram.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the tunnel, despite opening to traffic on October 29, 2023, has seen lower-than-expected usage over the past three years. The Roads and Highways Department (RHD) reports that toll collections average Tk 3.37 crore per month, while operating and maintenance costs are almost double, creating a significant deficit.
To address these challenges and enhance the tunnel's viability, the government has approved a 17-kilometer alternative road project costing Tk 336 crore. The plan involves widening the existing road through Anwara and Chandanaish to create a direct route from Chattogram to Cox's Bazar via the tunnel. This initiative aims to alleviate current traffic issues and increase tunnel usage.
The new road, part of the "Tunnel Connecting to Gachbaria Road Development Project," will connect Anwara directly to the Chattogram-Cox's Bazar Highway near Gachbaria College in Chandanaish. Expected to cut travel time by 30 minutes, it should encourage more vehicles to use the tunnel, boosting toll revenue.
RHD Executive Engineer Pintu Chakma noted that the road widening, scheduled for completion within two years of construction commencement, will significantly enhance connectivity. The project includes widening the existing road from 18 feet to 34 feet, straightening sharp bends, and constructing nine bridges and culverts, all aimed at accommodating future traffic demands.
The alternative road is seen as essential to revitalizing the tunnel and is expected to stimulate economic growth in South Chattogram. It could foster new businesses, transport services, and other economic activities, providing employment opportunities and enhancing trade and industry potential in the region.
M.A. Hashem Raju, a former General Secretary of the Chandanaish Upazila BNP, emphasized the road's potential to transform the local economy and improve access to the Chinese Economic Zone under construction. The new infrastructure is anticipated to open new avenues for industry and commerce in South Chattogram.