RAJSHAHI, Sept 25: In Rajshahi metropolis, the construction of five flyovers, being built at a cost of Tk 346 crore, has not been completed even after three years.
Although 40-50% of the work on each is finished, the slow pace has caused extreme suffering. Vehicular movement has almost come to a halt on many roads due to the ongoing construction. As vehicles are using alternative narrow roads, severe traffic jams are occurring across the city every day. This has multiplied the suffering of the general public and commuters.
According to Rajshahi Development Authority (RASIK) sources, the contracts for these flyovers were signed in 2021, and work began a year later. These flyovers are being constructed in the Hordgram Newpara, Court Station, Railgate, Bhadra, and Barnali-Bilsimla areas. Ranging in length from 400 meters to 1255 meters, these flyovers are being implemented under the Rajshahi City Corporation's Integrated Development Project.
City residents complain that after digging up the roads, the long delay in carrying out work has left the roads full of potholes and ditches. This has also increased the rate of accidents. Since the alternative roads are narrow and dilapidated, traffic jams persist day and night.
A traffic sergeant, Sonaet Hossain, said, "Due to the unfinished work on the flyovers, traffic jams have increased significantly. Despite our various efforts, we are unable to bring it under control."
Rickshaw puller Akbar Hossain said, "The vehicle wheels don't even want to move; it's impossible to travel peacefully in the city." Bus driver Nurul Islam said, "We have to use alternative routes. The roads there are also broken. Accidents are increasing too."
On the other hand, the contractors claim that they are not receiving sufficient payments for the work done. Sarwar Jahan, Project Manager of Majid and Sons, said, "We are constructing three flyovers. Although 50% of the work is complete, we have only received payment for 20%. Bills amounting to about Tk 20 crore are stuck. Bills are not being released on time due to negligence by the City Corporation. If this continues, we will have no option but to stop the work."
Regarding this, Rajshahi City Corporation's Administrator and Divisional Commissioner Khondkar Azim Ahmed said, "A meeting has been held regarding the contractors' problems. I hope their bills will be released quickly."
