Padma Barrage project work to begin in Jan-Feb: Anee

Construction work on the Padma Barrage project is expected to begin in January or February 2027, subject to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s schedule, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee said on Sunday (October 25).

The minister made the remarks while inspecting the project site in Satbaria, Sujanagar upazila of Pabna, and attending a technical discussion. He said the first phase would cost around Tk 35,000 crore, while the second phase is estimated at Tk 50,000–55,000 crore.

Anee said the project would benefit around seven crore people in southwestern Bangladesh by addressing dry-season water shortages, improving irrigation and supporting hydropower generation, navigation and fisheries development.

Project Director Hassan Mahmud said the barrage is planned to connect Sujanagar in Pabna with Rajbari. It is expected to cover 19 districts, with 78 gates to remain open during the monsoon to facilitate water flow.