Bridge Secretary inspects Jamuna Bridge, sasec-2 projects; stresses timely completion

Secretary of the Bridges Division and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bridges Authority, Mohammad Abdur Rouf, inspected the overall progress of construction work at the Jamuna Bridge and the SASEC Road Connection Project-2 (SASEC-2) on 15 January 2025.

The SASEC-2 project involves upgrading the Elenga–Hatikumrul–Rangpur highway to four lanes.

During the visit, he reviewed ongoing river management activities in the Jamuna Bridge area, including work at the west guide dam. The chief engineer, additional project director, and senior officials from the Bangladesh Bridges Authority site office were present during the inspection.

The bridge secretary also observed regular maintenance work at both the east and west ends of the Jamuna Bridge, as well as the bridge's structural health monitoring system. He issued technical instructions to ensure the bridge's stability and uninterrupted traffic movement. Emphasis was placed on improving the efficiency of the electronic toll collection (ETC) system to reduce congestion and passenger inconvenience at toll plazas.

Later, he inspected the progress of the SASEC-2 project in Tangail and Sirajganj districts, including key locations such as the Hatikumrul interchange in Sirajganj.

Speaking during the inspection, Mohammad Abdur Rouf said, "The SASEC-2 project is not just a road; it is a key driver of economic prosperity for North Bengal. It is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between the region, the capital, and the south-western part of the country. The project must be completed within the stipulated timeframe while maintaining international standards."

He added that the government remains committed to transforming the country's transport and communications infrastructure, noting that increasing the capacity of the Jamuna Bridge and linking the highway to the Asian Highway network would have a positive impact on the national economy.

Following the inspection, the bridge secretary issued specific instructions to engineers and contractors, stressing the importance of completing work within the set timeline while maintaining quality standards. He also directed authorities to ensure adequate safety fencing and signage at construction sites, and ordered regular water spraying to control dust in the interest of public health.