The prospective construction of the Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge is going to be a momentous achievement in the history of independent Bangladesh. It will usher in a new era in the transport and communication system of Bangladesh. It will also serve as a milestone in the history of economic development of the country.
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| Jamuna Bridge |
A sound, well-developed transport and communication system plays a vital role in the socio-economic progress of a country. Unfortunately, the communication system of Bangladesh is still back-dated and undeveloped. In the way of development of our transport and communication system the mighty Jamuna stands as a great stumbling block. This river flowing through the middle of the country largely impedes the transport probabilities to develop harmoniously throughout the country. One of the largest rivers of Bangladesh, the Jamuna assumes a fearful aspect in the rainy season and it becomes very difficult to cross it then. In the dry season, again, it dries into small lake. Thus it has effectively bifurcated the country into two distinct parts giving rise to two economics, two markets on both sides of the river.
Under the circumstances, the question of constructing a multi-purpose bridge over the Jamuna has been under consideration for a long time. The idea originated during the tenure of office of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as President of Bangladesh. Subsequently in 1982, President Ershad declared in public the intension to construct a bridge over the Jamuna. Accordingly, a high-powered committee was formed headed by the President himself. Four or five ministers and the secretaries of the concerned Ministers were on the committee as members. The Multi-purpose Jamuna Bridge Authority also came into being and it was entrusted with the responsibility of studying the probability of, and implementing, its construction. At the same time, the question of constructing the Jamuna Bridge received top national priority.
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| The longest bridge in Bangladesh |
If the Jamuna Bridge Project is implemented, an about 12km. long two-way road along with a railway bridge will be built. As a result, carrying of goods round the year between two parts of the country will be made quick and easy. By virtue of the bridge, natural gas and electricity will reach the north-western region of the country. Moreover, the multi-purpose bridge, when constructed, will substantially reduce transport fares including railway fare. It would pave the way for harmonious development of agriculture, industry, electricity, forest and natural wealth in both the regions. Above all, it would consolidate national integrity through close relations among different parts of the country.
The feasibility of the construction of the Jamuna Bridge was studied in two phases. The first phase dealt with site selection and various other characteristics of the Bridge. The work of the first phase was completed in April 1986.The second phase has evaluated the preliminary engineering and economics sides of the project. Work on finalization of this phase is still going on.
After the completion of the evaluation of the feasibility studies in two phases, the construction work of the bridge was expected to start by the end of 1990. The probable expenditure for its construction was estimated at three thousand core taka. It was supposed to be completed by 1994. Some of the sources of fund are the World Bank , Paris Consortium of the aid-giving countries and surcharges within the country. Meanwhile Levies have been imposed on fourteen different items like crossing by ferries, transport, railway tickets, fixed deposits etc. in order to raise a local fund.
It is a matter of regret that after the change of Government in Bangladesh in December, 1990, the Multi-purpose Jamuna Bridge Project was not only relegated to the background but its feasibility also was put into question. The main aid-giving agency the World Bank at first opined that the construction of the bridge would be unprofitable. After a great deal of procrastination the World Bank experts team had to reckon with the massive public support for the implementation of the project and to consent to approve and give aid to the project. With some significant alterations here and there in the project, an Action Program for its implementation has been finalized. As for the real progress of work, earth-work on both sides of the prospective bridge is nearing completion and massive work for the construction of the main bridge is going on in full swing. It is hoped that the prestigious project will be completed and put into operation by 1997.
The whole nation is looking forward to see the implementation of the multi-purpose Jamuna Bridge Project as early as possible. We want this for the steady and harmonious progress of the country and for achieving solidarity and integrity of the people on both sides of the jamuna. We all should come forward to continue our mite for the successful implementation of this historic project.
