Abrar Fahad bridge work may begin by dry season’s end

Local Government State Minister Shahe Alam on Wednesday inspected the proposed site of the Shaheed Abrar Fahad Bridge over the Gorai River in Kumarkhali, Kushtia, expressing hope that construction would begin by the end of the current dry season.

The minister visited the designated site in Ghorai Ghat area of Kaya Union around noon. Officials from the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), local administration and political leaders were present.

Earlier, he visited the grave of Abrar Fahad at Raydanga Cemetery and met with his family members.

Speaking to journalists after the inspection, Shahe Alam said Abrar’s family recently met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and requested the construction of a bridge over the Gorai River. Following their request, the prime minister directed the authorities to take necessary steps.

The minister said feasibility studies, soil testing and design work would begin soon, following instructions to the relevant LGED engineers.

He estimated the project cost at Tk 250 crore to Tk 300 crore, adding that a separate development project proposal would be required before securing the necessary approvals.

“We hope to invite tenders and begin the main construction work by the end of the current dry season after completing all formalities,” he said.

Abrar’s father, Md Barkat Ullah, Kushtia district BNP leaders and other local representatives were present during the visit.

-AJM