Japanese firm interested in Shariatpur-Chandpur Meghna bridge project

Japanese company Miyagawa Kensetsu Construction Limited has shown interest in the proposed Meghna River bridge on the Shariatpur-Chandpur road.

A company delegation conveyed its interest during a courtesy meeting with Bridges Division Secretary and Bangladesh Bridge Authority Executive Director Mohammad Abdur Rouf at Setu Bhaban in Dhaka on Friday (11 September), after being invited to discuss the proposed bridge, according to a press release.

The expression of interest followed a decision taken at the eighth Japan-Bangladesh Platform Meeting.

Miyagawa Kensetsu Construction Limited Director/Overseas Representative Toji Nishida led the Japanese delegation.

During the meeting, both sides discussed the project's feasibility, technical aspects and possible areas of cooperation in constructing the bridge.

Welcoming the delegation, Mohammad Abdur Rouf briefed its members on the Bangladesh Bridge Authority's ongoing mega projects and plans.

He said Bangladesh had achieved significant development in its communication sector during the current government's tenure.

He said bridge construction over the country's major rivers was a priority to strengthen the national communication network.

Rouf stressed that infrastructure projects should be implemented transparently, within stipulated time frames and in compliance with international standards.

"Under the visionary leadership of the current government, an incredible transformation has taken place in the country's communication sector," he said.

"Mega projects are being implemented due to the specific guidance and unwavering goodwill of the prime minister. At the same time, the country's communication infrastructure is being upgraded to global standards under the leadership and continued guidance of the minister and state minister of the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges," he added.

The Bridges Division secretary also said a subway network would play an important role in meeting future traffic demand.

He emphasised the need to use internationally recognised engineering technologies and maintain transparency, quality and project deadlines while implementing large infrastructure projects.

Members of the Japanese delegation praised Bangladesh's infrastructure development and shared their company's experience in implementing complex, large-scale construction projects in Japan.

They expressed interest in applying Japan's latest technologies and technical expertise to major infrastructure projects in Bangladesh, including the proposed bridge over the Meghna River on the Shariatpur-Chandpur road.

At the end of the meeting, Rouf explained the Bridges Division's position on processing the Japanese company's interest under Bangladesh's existing laws, rules and policies.

He asked the delegation to submit a formal proposal outlining the investment conditions, financing arrangements, and other institutional mechanisms required to implement the project under a public-private partnership.

The Bangladesh Bridge Authority said it would take the next steps through the appropriate process after receiving the formal proposal.