Rupganj Correspondent: The construction of the much-anticipated Keodala-Thulthulia Bridge over the Balu River in Rupganj, Narayanganj, has come to a standstill due to unresolved land acquisition issues. The project, under the supervision of the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), is now facing fresh challenges, putting the region’s long-awaited connectivity dream at risk.
Originally set to begin on 22 April 2024, the bridge is designed to be 625.35 metres long, 9.4 metres wide, and 12 metres high, with an estimated budget of Tk 93 crore. It was expected to be completed by 28 April 2027. However, delays in acquiring land and disagreements over compensation have halted all progress.
Adding to the complication, the Balu River has recently been reclassified from a third-class to a second-class river. According to BIWTA, this change requires the bridge to be built 12.20 metres above the river’s highest water level, with 76.22 metres spacing between girders. They argue that if these standards are not met, the natural flow of the river and the movement of large vessels could be obstructed.
However, the Roads and Highways Department disagrees, stating that the Balu River is a minor branch with limited navigation. During the dry season, its depth remains only 3 to 4 metres, with a width of around 25 to 30 metres.
Local residents are increasingly frustrated. The lack of a proper bridge forces them to travel an additional 20 kilometres daily, wasting both time and money. The only alternative, the old Chanpara-Demra Bridge, is in poor condition—its concrete is falling off, reinforcement bars are exposed, and its pillars are damaged by barge collisions. Locals fear a major accident could happen anytime.
One resident, Jibonn Dasi Sarkar, shared her frustration,"The bridge is cutting through my 44 decimal land. I haven’t received any compensation. That’s why I filed to stop the work."
Golzar Hossain, former chairman of Kayetpara Union, said,"This bridge has been stuck for over 21 years. It's not just a construction project—it's a lifeline for thousands in this region."
Contractor Md. Mostafa Mia from SEL KVL UCC JB said they are ready to start immediately. Materials and worker accommodations are already in place, but the legal dispute has paused everything.
LGED engineer Shafiul Alam stated, "We were ready to start, but due to land acquisition issues, the work is on hold. We’ve sent all documents to the Deputy Commissioner’s office."
In response, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue), Zahid Hasan Siddiqui, assured,
"There’s no reason to worry. The process is ongoing. Some parts of the land belong to the river, which is causing slight delays. We’ve sent the papers to the Ministry of Land. Once a decision comes through, compensation will be given to all affected people."
Locals are threatening protests and roadblocks if the issue is not resolved soon. Many believe that without intervention from top government officials, the situation may not improve. Once completed, the bridge will drastically reduce travel time between Dhaka and Rupganj, benefiting nearby areas such as Araihazar and Narsingdi by cutting almost 50 kilometres of travel.
