A new era for trade and travel: Bangladesh opens its longest railway bridge

Bangladesh‍‍`s longest railway bridge, the Jamuna Railway Bridge, officially opened today, marking a significant step forward in the nation‍‍`s transportation and economic development.

The bridge, built over the Jamuna River, is expected to improve trade routes and enhance connectivity, particularly in the northern regions of the country. 

The travel time across the bridge is only three to five minutes, bringing a new level of efficiency to the rail network.

The inauguration ceremony took place this morning, with the Secretary of the Ministry of Railways, Fahimul Islam, officiating the event. 

The project is set to reshape the nation‍‍`s rail infrastructure by providing a faster, safer route for trains.

Key Project Details

The Jamuna Railway Bridge, built alongside the existing road bridge over the Jamuna River, includes two tracks, allowing trains to run in both directions. 

The bridge, part of a major infrastructure project that began in 2016, spans 4.8 kilometers. 

Its construction cost nearly 16,800 crore taka, reflecting its importance as a long-term investment in the country’s transportation system.

Train operations had already begun on one of the new lines on February 12, and now, both lines will be fully operational. 

Trains on this double-track bridge can travel at speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour, improving travel times across the region. 

However, with the enhanced service, ticket prices for trains crossing the bridge will increase between 45 and 160 taka, depending on seat class.

This fare adjustment will take effect from March 19.

Officials and Guests Present at the Opening

The inauguration event saw the presence of high-profile figures, including Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinchi and Ito Teruyaki, Director General of the South Asia Department at JICA, alongside the chief guest, Fahimul Islam.

Bangladesh Railway’s Director General, Md. Afzal Hossain, presided over the ceremony, where the importance of the project was highlighted, especially in terms of enhancing connectivity between the north and the rest of the country. 

Following the ceremony at Ibrahimabad Station, officials traveled by train to Sirajganj’s Sayedabad Railway Station to continue the celebrations.

A Boost for Economy and Connectivity

This new infrastructure will not only ease travel but is expected to boost the national economy by streamlining trade routes between the northern and southern parts of the country. 

Increased train speeds, along with the bridge’s capacity to handle more traffic, will likely reduce bottlenecks in the rail network.

The bridge‍‍`s construction is part of a broader strategy to improve Bangladesh’s infrastructure and position the country as a regional hub for trade and logistics, connecting it more effectively to neighboring countries.