Padma Bridge construction to begin next year

Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain yesterday said construction work of the Padma Bridge would begin next year to establish a direct road link between the south-western region and other parts of the country.
The design and other works of the bridge would be completed this year, he said, adding that the construction would be completed by 2013.
The four-lane bridge will have rail link and gas pipelines.
The minister was speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of zonal office of Gopalganj Road Division.
He directed the newly formed office of the road division to prepare Tk 1,000 to Tk 2,000 crore projects for the development of the region by June.
The minister said the government aims at restoring the process of economic development in the region by implementing different stalled projects, including Patgati Bridge and Poisar Hat Road.
He said for the development of tourism industry, four-lane Faridpur-Kuakata Road and four big bridges would be constructed, adding that the government has a plan to link Bogra to Bhatiapara-Benapole-Khulna-Mongla with Asian Highway.
Abul Hossain said a balanced development in the communications sector throughout the country would be ensured.