Bangladesh approves highway plan linking Bhola to mainland road network

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday approved a plan to build a highway linking island district Bhola with Bangladesh’s main road network through Hijla and Mehendiganj, officials said.

The decision followed consideration of three proposals for direct road links with Dhaka and Barishal. Officials selected the Roads and Highways Department’s Barishal-Rahmatpur-Hijla-Mehendiganj-Bhola route.

The project would widen existing roads, build new sections, and construct three small bridges. Rahman directed authorities to move quickly while assessing the project’s feasibility and viability.

Officials said the highway could shorten travel times, reduce transportation costs, and lessen Bhola’s longstanding dependence on waterways. The route is also expected to improve access to Dhaka, Barishal, and other parts of Bangladesh while expanding trade and commerce opportunities.