Padma Bridge Essay
Introduction: The Padma Bridge is a multi-purpose road-rail bridge situated over the Padma River in Bangladesh. It holds the distinction of being the longest bridge in the country as well as the deepest-piled bridge globally. Its primary purpose is to connect the Munshiganj district with Shariatpur and Madaripur, linking the capital with the southwestern and northeastern regions of Bangladesh. The project encompasses a 6.15 km long and 21.10 m wide bridge, along with a 15.1 km approach road, toll plazas, and service areas. The completion of this bridge is expected to have a significant impact on the economic progress and industrial development of Bangladesh, which is a developing nation with a population of approximately 180 million. It is projected that the Padma Multi-purpose Bridge will contribute to a 1.2 percent increase in the country’s GDP.
The bridge is designed with a double-decker structure, featuring a four-lane road on the upper deck and a rail track below. Additionally, it accommodates gas pipes, electrical lines, and fiber optic cables.
History: In 1971, before the independence of Bangladesh, the first plan to build a bridge over the Padma River was taken up. A group of Japanese survey experts prepared a feasibility report for the construction of the Dhaka-Faridpur road. As part of the construction of the road, they suggested the construction of a bridge over the Padma River. But the work did not progress due to the partition of the country. After Bangladesh became independent, President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman announced the construction of a bridge across the River Padma, but due to his death, the work did not start.
In 1998, the Bangladesh government initiated a Tk 3,643.50 crore project to build a 5 km long and 18.10 m wide bridge over the Padma River on the Dhaka-Mawa-Bhanga-Khulna highway to directly connect the southern and southwestern regions of the country with the capital Dhaka. Later in 1999, a pre-feasibility study was conducted for the bridge project. On July 4, 2001, the foundation stone of the Padma Bridge was laid at the Mawa-Jazira end. In 2004, Nippon Koei, a consultant appointed by JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency), after conducting a detailed survey for the construction of the Padma Bridge, recommended the construction of the bridge at the previously designated Mawa-Jazira Point.
Subsequently, in the 2006-2007 annual development program, the plan to construct the Padma multi-purpose bridge was adopted. After the feasibility study, on August 20, 2007, the then-caretaker government approved the Padma Bridge project at a cost of Tk 10,161 crore. At that time the target was set to complete the construction of the bridge by 2015.
Before the 2008 general elections, the Bangladesh Awami League announced a commitment to build the Padma Bridge in its election manifesto. After winning the elections, the Awami League government hired a consultancy firm in 2009 to draw up the design and began the process of land acquisition. The World Bank, Asian Development Bank, JICA, and Islamic Development Bank have pledged to finance the bridge’s construction. Bangladesh signed a loan agreement with the World Bank on April 28, 2009.
The caretaker government passed the Padma Bridge project in 2007 for Rs 10,161 crore. But the Awami League government that came to power added a rail track to it and repeatedly revised the project plan, nearly tripling the estimated cost. Bangladesh signed loan agreements with several financial institutions including the World Bank for the construction of the bridge. But the World Bank accused the project of corruption. Hence, first, the World Bank and later the Asian Development Bank, JICA, and the Islamic Development Bank suspended the financing of the project.
On July 8, 2012, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina presented the Padma Bridge construction plan to Parliament with Bangladesh’s own funding. On June 17, 2014, the Bangladesh Bridge Authority signed an agreement with China Railway Major Bridge Engineering Group for the construction of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge, and the Prime Minister inaugurated the construction work on December 12, 2015.
Role of Padma Bridge in Economy: The Padma Multipurpose Bridge has created a direct link between the center of Bangladesh and its southwestern region. So it can be said with certainty that this bridge will contribute significantly to the social, economic, and industrial development of the remote and underdeveloped regions of the country. The bridge will directly benefit over 3 crore people living in an area of about 44,000 sq km or 29% of the total area of Bangladesh. That is why the Padma Bridge is considered a very important infrastructure for the country’s communication, transportation, and regional economic development. The bridge is expected to increase Bangladesh’s GDP by up to 1.2 percent.
Conclusion: Padma Bridge is the longest bridge in Bangladesh and the largest construction in its history. The fast-flowing and erosion-prone Padma River, which had divided the country into two parts for the past half a century, ended this bridge and greatly facilitated the movement of people and goods. A big dream of the Bengali nation has come true through the construction of the Padma Bridge. In the coming days, this bridge will continue to accelerate the economic progress of Bangladesh and play a groundbreaking role in industrial development.
The Padma Bridge: Connecting Bangladesh for a Better Future
Introduction: The Padma Bridge is an extraordinary construction project taking place in Bangladesh. It aims to connect two significant areas, Mawa and Janjira, by spanning across the Padma River. Let’s explore this remarkable project and understand how it will shape the future of Bangladesh.
Bridging Communities: The Padma Bridge will serve as a vital link, connecting communities from Mawa to Janjira. This means people will be able to travel more easily and quickly between these areas, fostering closer relationships and facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas.
Convenient Transportation: To accommodate different modes of travel, the bridge will feature separate lanes for cars and trains. This will make commuting more efficient and comfortable for both road users and railway passengers, offering greater convenience in transportation.
Government’s Investment: The construction of the Padma Bridge is a testament to the government’s commitment to infrastructure development. The government of Bangladesh is investing significant resources in this project, recognizing its importance for the country’s progress and prosperity.
Engineering Expertise: The renowned China Major Bridge Engineering Corporation has been entrusted with the task of building the Padma Bridge. Their expertise and experience ensure that the bridge will be constructed to the highest quality and safety standards.
Boosting Regional Connectivity: The completion of the Padma Bridge will significantly enhance connectivity in Bangladesh. It will open up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between different regions, promoting unity and fostering economic growth.
Economic Impact: The bridge’s construction and subsequent operation will create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth. Businesses will flourish as transportation becomes more accessible, leading to increased productivity and a stronger economy.
Improved Accessibility to Services: The Padma Bridge will improve access to essential services such as healthcare and education. People living in remote areas will have better reach to hospitals and educational institutions, ensuring that vital services are available to all.
Symbol of Progress: The Padma Bridge represents a symbol of progress for Bangladesh. It showcases the nation’s determination to develop its infrastructure and improve the lives of its citizens. The bridge stands as a testament to the country’s growth and aspirations for a brighter future.
Conclusion: The Padma Bridge is an ambitious project that will connect communities, enhance transportation, and drive economic growth in Bangladesh. It signifies the nation’s commitment to progress and prosperity. As students, we can look forward to a future where the Padma Bridge will enable us to explore new opportunities, connect with diverse communities, and contribute to the development of our beloved country.
Padma Bridge Essay