Flooding causes 65-kilometre long tailback on Dhaka-Chattogram Highway

A devastating 65-kilometre traffic jam has paralyzed the Dhaka-Chattogram highway following severe flooding in the Feni region.

Recent torrential rains have submerged large stretches of the highway, particularly in the Fatehpur and Lalpol areas of Feni, disrupting vehicle movement and leading to massive delays.

Floodwaters, which have been rising for the past three days, have caused significant damage to the road infrastructure. Vehicles traveling from Dhaka to Chattogram are currently stranded, unable to proceed due to the rising water levels in both Feni and Chattogram. The situation has left traffic partially halted in both directions, causing severe inconvenience for passengers and cargo alike.

Highway Police Superintendent of Comilla region, Khairul Islam, reported that the highway remains inundated in the Lalpol area, extending the traffic jam up to 65 kilometers from Chauddagram in Comilla towards Chattogram and from Baraiyarhat in Mirsharai towards Dhaka. The traffic congestion is so severe that trucks, mini-trucks, covered vans, pickups, buses, microbuses, jeeps, and private cars are all immobilized, with little progress being made.

Islam emphasized the ongoing efforts to alleviate the situation. "We are working diligently to clear the traffic jam as the floodwaters recede. Our teams have been on the ground for the past two days, coordinating with various agencies to address the issues. However, the floodwaters have proven to be a major obstacle," he said.

Although the floodwaters in Feni have begun to recede, significant amounts of water remain in Lalpol and Baraiyarhat, ranging from knee to waist level. This persistent flooding continues to cause extreme discomfort for travelers. Volunteers are actively setting up tents and conducting rescue and relief operations in the affected areas.

Additionally, Kamal Uddin, Acting Officer of Mahipal Highway, reported damage to the Lemuya Bridge over the Sylonya River in Feni due to the floods. This has led to a complete disruption of road communication in the area. The full extent of the bridge‍‍`s damage remains unclear as officials are currently unable to assess the situation directly due to the floodwaters.

Authorities and rescue teams are working around the clock to manage the situation and provide relief to those affected.