Bangladesh moves ahead with six-lane study for Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway

A feasibility study is underway to upgrade key sections of the 159-kilometer Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway to six lanes, following a June announcement by prime minister Tarique Rahman.

Officials are initially studying a 23-kilometer stretch covering Patiya Bypass, Dohazari, Keranihat, Lohagara, and Chakaria, where traffic congestion is severe. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will provide funding for the project, according to the report.

Roads and Highways Department officials said overpasses may be built where needed. National Highway N-1 has narrow sections and dangerous bends blamed for frequent crashes. At least 200 people have died on the route over the past three years, particularly in Satkania, Lohagara, and Chunti.

Officials said survey work accelerated after Rahman’s June 13 announcement in Chakaria.