The long-awaited road connectivity between the island district of Bhola and Bangladesh’s mainland is set to become a reality. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has approved a project to construct a highway along the Rahmatpur–Hijla–Mehendiganj–Bhola route, creating a direct road link between Bhola and the country’s main road network.

The decision was taken at a meeting held at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon on Saturday (August 22), where several proposals for establishing direct road connectivity between Bhola, Dhaka and Barishal were discussed. The route proposed by the Roads and Highways Department—Barishal (Rahmatpur–Hijla–Mehendiganj–Bhola)—was considered comparatively cost-effective, feasible and practical. The proposal to construct a highway along this route was subsequently approved.

At the meeting, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stressed the need to overcome Bhola’s geographical isolation and establish uninterrupted connectivity with other parts of the country. He also emphasized developing an integrated and sustainable road network and instructed the concerned ministries and departments to complete the initial work quickly and move toward implementation.

Officials involved in the project said the plan includes construction of new roads as well as widening and upgrading several sections of existing roads. Necessary infrastructure will also be developed at locations where direct road construction is difficult because of rivers and wetlands. The plan includes the construction of three small bridges.

Before implementation, the proposed route will undergo detailed assessments covering feasibility, technical requirements, environmental impacts and necessary infrastructure. The project cost and implementation framework will be finalized afterward, officials said.

For years, residents of Bhola have been demanding direct road connectivity with the mainland. At present, a large number of residents, traders and goods transporters depend on waterways. Weather conditions and limitations on vessel operations often increase travel and transportation time.

Once the proposed highway is completed, Bhola will have direct road connections with Barishal and Dhaka. Transportation of passengers and goods to other parts of the country will also become easier. The project is expected to reduce travel time and transportation costs while creating new opportunities for the expansion of agriculture, fisheries, industry and trade in the district.

Officials believe the initiative could bring more than just improvements to Bhola’s transportation system. It could also accelerate economic activity in the island district by reducing its long-standing geographical isolation and making connectivity with other parts of the country faster and more efficient.

Road Transport and Bridges and Railways and Shipping Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam, Shipping Ministry and Bridges Division State Minister Rajib Ahsan, and senior officials from the relevant ministries, divisions and departments were present at the meeting.