Government Approves Rahmatpur-Hizla Highway to Link Bhola
The building of a new highway along the Rahmatpur–Hizla–Mehendiganj–Bhola route has been approved by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to incorporate the island district of Bhola into the nation’s main road system. Three different connection options were assessed during a high-level meeting at the PM’s Office in Tejgaon on Saturday, which resulted in the decision.
The Roads and Highways Department’s (RHD) recommended route will create direct road connections between Bhola and Dhaka as well as Barishal. According to project authorities, feasibility and economic viability analyses will be carried out as soon as possible. The project includes enlarging current roadways, adding new sections, and constructing three minor bridges.
PM Tarique Rahman ordered officials to accelerate the project’s execution, highlighting its strategic significance. An integrated infrastructure must be constructed, he said, ‘To overcome geographical barriers, ensure seamless connectivity, and expand trade and business opportunities’. The Hizla–Mehendiganj route, according to officials, provides an acceptable replacement for the river-bound district by significantly reducing travel time, distance, and expenses.
Once the highway is finished, the people of Bhola, who have historically relied on waterways, should profit from a decreased reliance on river transportation. Senior officials, including as State Minister Rajib Ahsan, RHD Chief Engineer Md. Moniruzzaman, and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam, attended the meeting.
