A transformative 494-meter-long bridge is under construction over the Namakhura River in Laimpasha village, under Mriga Union of Itna Upazila, Kishoreganj. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), began in 2023 with the aim of connecting the districts of Kishoreganj, Habiganj, Mymensingh, and Netrokona. Upon completion, the bridge promises to drastically improve the lives of millions in the region by cutting travel time and boosting economic activity.
When this correspondent visited the site, significant progress was already visible. Workers were actively constructing both the bridge and the approach road, which has a total estimated cost of Tk 70 crore. While the project was initially expected to be completed by 2026, officials now aim to finish construction by mid-2025. Once operational, the bridge will relieve over 100,000 people from the hardships associated with crossing the river by boat, particularly during the rainy season when river crossings become treacherous or impossible.
Locals are hopeful that the bridge will reshape the region’s connectivity. “Traveling from Kishoreganj to Habiganj will no longer require lengthy detours,” one resident remarked. “We’ll be able to cross the bridge and reach our destination in record time.” Farmers are particularly excited, as the bridge will provide direct access to markets, eliminating the need for middlemen who often buy agricultural products at below-market rates.
In addition to improved transport for farmers, the bridge will serve as a lifeline for students, traders, and patients in the region. Without the bridge, locals must endure a 10km detour or rely on boats to access essential services. Laimpasha residents, who have long been plagued by the river’s challenges, are hopeful that the bridge will finally ease their struggles.
Farmer Ismail Mia, who has transported paddy across the Namakhura River for years, expressed relief at the progress. “Transporting crops will become much easier, saving us time and effort,” he said. Similarly, Shahid, a local resident, recalled the challenges students faced in reaching their schools by boat. “The hardships we’ve endured will soon be a thing of the past.”
Md Darul Islam, Chairman of Mriga Union Parishad, highlighted the bridge’s regional significance: “This isn’t just a bridge for Laimpasha. It will create a vital connection between four districts, enabling faster travel to both Sylhet and Mymensingh.”
Despite the optimism, the construction process has not been without challenges. Mominul Haque Selim, the project’s contractor, reported delays in receiving the necessary funds. “We are working diligently to complete the project ahead of schedule, but we are facing delays in payments,” he said. Currently, Tk 15 crore is due from the LGED. However, Selim remains confident, noting that sufficient materials have been stockpiled to continue work without interruption.
Itna Upazila Engineer, Noni Gopal Das, emphasized the long-term benefits of the bridge. “Once completed, the bridge will significantly boost agricultural output, allowing crops like paddy, jute, and potatoes to reach markets more quickly. This will usher in socio-economic growth across the region, benefiting not only farmers but also students and traders alike.”
Md Amirul Islam, Executive Engineer of Kishoreganj LGED, echoed this sentiment. “Despite challenges, we are on track to complete the bridge ahead of schedule. This project is a beacon of hope for the entire region, promising new opportunities for growth and development.”
With 40% of the construction already completed, the Namakhura River bridge is well on its way to becoming a symbol of progress and a critical lifeline for the people of Kishoreganj, Habiganj, Mymensingh, and Netrokona.