Hatikumrul Interchange Set to Open in December, Revamping Road Connectivity Across 22 Districts
The Hatikumrul Interchange is scheduled to open in December, with the potential to improve road connectivity across 22 districts. The country’s second and most advanced international-standard interchange is being built to ease traffic congestion and improve vehicle movement in the busy Hatikumrul area. The project began in 2022 and was initially scheduled for completion by December 2024. However, land acquisition and other complications extended the deadline to December this year. Around 72% of the work has been completed.
Construction of the sand-filled sections, boundary walls, SMB bridge and service areas is progressing, while six service lanes have already been opened. Work is continuing in two shifts, day and night, to complete the main structures within the deadline. SASEC-2 Deputy Project Manager Md Sarfaraz Hossain said, “We are working in two shifts, 24 hours a day. We hope to complete the main structure by December.”
SASEC-2 Project Director Md Waliur Rahman said, “We are using innovative technology. We are using GPS for surveys so that surveys can be conducted easily. We use building information software so that we can monitor the work properly.” Experts say the interchange will allow fuller use of the capacity of the Jamuna Bridge, improve traffic speed and strengthen road safety, potentially benefiting the wider economy.
Sirajganj Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Saidur Rahman Bacchu said faster transportation of goods could help reduce product prices. BUET Civil Engineering Professor Md Hadiuzzaman said the use of Intelligent Transport System (ITS) components could reduce traffic congestion and strengthen safety management. The Tk 743 crore project is being implemented by Chinese contractor China Railway Bridge Corporation. Once completed, it is expected to improve connectivity between the capital and the northern and southwestern regions and support faster movement of goods and commercial activity.
