Government to construct second Padma Bridge: Bridges Minister

The government is going to construct a second Padma Bridge, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam has said.

The minister made the announcement while speaking to journalists after a preparatory meeting to ensure safe Eid journey ahead of Eid-ul-Azha at the Secretariat on Monday, May 11.

When asked whether a second Padma Bridge at the Daulatdia-Paturia point would reduce road accidents, the minister said a plan has already been taken. "There are three proposals for the second Padma Bridge. The first proposal is on the route you mentioned. We are going to construct a second Padma Bridge. The feasibility study has already been completed. We are considering the financing aspect and holding discussions. Other preparatory work is also underway," he said.

The feasibility study has been completed, and discussions on financing are ongoing, the minister added.

On waterway safety during Eid journeys, the minister said additional precautions have been taken. An investigation into an accident where a bus fell into a river at the Aricha ghat revealed brake failure. To prevent such accidents, barricades will be installed before loading vehicles onto ferries so that new vehicles cannot enter until the ferry is completely empty.

New regulations have also been introduced for speedboat and launch movement at Sadarghat. Speedboat passengers will no longer be able to board launches directly, and they must use designated pontoons. A new connecting bridge has also been constructed for this purpose.

Referring to the upcoming Eid, the minister said over 1.5 crore people will travel and nearly one crore sacrificial animals will be transported, making this year's Eid management extremely challenging. However, if all agencies work in a coordinated manner, it will be possible to significantly reduce suffering and accidents.