Bangladesh inaugurates Padma bridge rail link

Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, officially inaugurated the 82-km Padma Bridge Rail Link, marking the completion of the country's largest infrastructure project, which is a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Dhaka-Bhanga section of the rail route, connecting Dhaka to Jashore via the Padma Bridge, was unveiled at Mawa Railway Station in Munshiganj. The Jessore portion of the project is expected to be inaugurated in June next year. The Padma Bridge Rail Link is recognised as a landmark BRI project and the largest infrastructure endeavour in Bangladesh supported by Chinese preferential loans. According to the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Yao Wen, this project, considered one of the most significant infrastructure developments in Bangladesh, is anticipated to have a direct positive impact on 80 million people and contribute to a 1.5% increase in economic growth. The total project cost is estimated at Tk 392.46 billion, with the Export-Import Bank of China providing a loan of Tk 210.36 billion.