BD, JICA likely to meet in mid-Nov to finalise project

CHATTOGRAM, Oct 20: Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are likely to hold a meeting in mid-November to finalise the proposal for upgrading the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Highway to six lanes.

Sources at the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) under the ministry said the feasibility study for the 66-kilometre (km) stretch from Chattogram to Fasiakhali had been completed.

Talking to The Daily Observer, Additional Chief Engineer of the RHD’s Chattogram Zone M Abdul Halim said, “After finalisation of the proposal, we shall proceed with construction work on the project as early as possible.”

“JICA has agreed to finance the project covering 66km of the 150km route from Chattogram to Fasiakhali,” he added.

The existing two-lane road is struggling to cope with the growing volume of traffic, including vehicles using the Karnaphuli Tunnel, while also accommodating regular traffic flows.

The ministry submitted the Development Project Proposal (DPP) to JICA for review about two years ago.

Following approval from JICA, the ministry will proceed with implementation of the project, sources said.

Economic activities in Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar and Matarbari are expanding, increasing the need for improved road connectivity. Upgrading the highway to six lanes is considered important to accommodate future traffic demand and support the region’s economic growth.