Minister says funding talks ongoing as Bangladesh advances second Padma Bridge plan

A long-discussed river crossing project edges into its next planning phase

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam has said the feasibility study for a proposed second Padma Bridge at the Daulatdia–Paturia point has been completed, while discussions are ongoing on “funding and preparatory work”.

Speaking after a meeting on ensuring safe travel during Eid, he said constructing a bridge at Daulatdia–Paturia point could reduce road accidents.

“Yes, the plan has been taken. That is your second Padma Bridge proposal. There are three proposals, and the first one is the route you mentioned,” he said.

The first Padma Bridge, linking Mawa in Munshiganj and Jazira in Shariatpur, was inaugurated in 2022 under the previous Awami League government.

The 6.15km structure cost more than Tk 300 billion.

The proposed second bridge, long under discussion, would connect the Paturia ferry terminal in Manikganj with Daulatdia in Rajbari.

Officials say it would significantly reduce road distances between Dhaka and districts including Meherpur, Chuadanga, Kushtia, Jhenaidah, Magura and Rajbari.

A pre-feasibility study was conducted in 1999 with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, and a final report was submitted in May 2005.

In February 2018, then road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader said funding requests to development partners had received no response.

Construction of the bridge was also included in the BNP’s election manifesto.