President visits Padma bridge project sites

President Abdul Hamid yesterday visited the Padma bridge project sites in Munshiganj and Shariatpur areas and expressed his satisfaction over the progress of the construction work.

The president, who is on a two-day visit to the sites, arrived at the Padma Bridge Service Area-1 at Mawa part in Munshiganj in the afternoon, where he was apprised of different activities of this project.

He along with his entourage also went on a boat ride to witness the pillars of the bridge and scenic beauty of the Padma River.

Senior Secretary of Bridges Division of Road Transport and Bridges Ministry Khandker Anwarul Islam briefed the president about the project, saying 53 percent work of the much-awaited bridge ended till end of March.

Talking to the officials there, the president said, "I'm really satisfied seeing the progress…."

He also said once completed, the bridge would facilitate regional trade, promote industrial and commercial activities and increase economic and employment opportunities in the country.

According to the project, 41 spans will be set up and a 3.5km viaduct will be constructed in the 6.15km long bridge between Mawa and Jajira, Shariatpur.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, Awami League leaders and military officials, among others, accompanied the president.

The president will return to Dhaka today.