The much-anticipated Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, South Asia’s first-ever under-river tunnel, is on the verge of completion in Bangladesh. Spanning 3.4 kilometers beneath the Karnaphuli River, this engineering marvel is set to transform the region’s connectivity and economic landscape.
Linking the bustling port city of Chattogram on the western bank to the industrial areas on the eastern side of the Karnaphuli River, the tunnel will significantly reduce travel time and boost trade activities. An additional 5.35 kilometers of approach roads and a 727-meter overbridge have been constructed to seamlessly connect the tunnel with existing road networks.
The tunnel, constructed with the assistance of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), employs cutting-edge technology and reflects the growing collaboration between Bangladesh and its international partners. Upon completion, it is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in Chattogram, enhance regional development, and contribute to Bangladesh’s ongoing economic growth.
Local businesses and residents are eagerly awaiting the tunnel’s inauguration, anticipating improved logistics and new opportunities. “This tunnel is a game-changer for us,” said a local entrepreneur. “It will open up new markets and make transportation more efficient.”
The Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel is more than just an infrastructural project; it symbolizes Bangladesh’s strides toward modernization and its commitment to enhancing connectivity within South Asia. As the tunnel nears completion, the nation looks forward to the myriad benefits it will bring to the economy and the daily lives of its people.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
