the Karnaphuli Tunnel, is a significant infrastructure project in Bangladesh, designed to enhance connectivity in the port city of Chattogram.
| Location | Chittagong, Bangladesh |
| Length | 3.32 km (9.39 km total) |
| Status | Fully operational. |
| Cost | Approximately BDT. 122 billion (US$1.1 billion) |
| Constructed by | China Communications Construction Company |
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, commonly referred to as the Karnaphuli Tunnel, is a significant infrastructure project in Bangladesh, designed to enhance connectivity in the port city of Chattogram. This underwater expressway tunnel, which runs beneath the Karnaphuli River, is the first of its kind in South Asia and represents a major advancement in the country's transport network.
The tunnel spans a total length of 9.39 kilometers (5.83 miles), with the underwater section measuring approximately 3.32 kilometers (2.06 miles). Its diameter is 10.80 meters (35.4 feet), allowing for a dual-lane traffic system. The project, initiated in 2017 and completed in October 2023, was constructed by the China Communications Construction Company at an estimated cost of around $1.1 billion, with significant financing provided by the Exim Bank of China.
The Bangabandhu Tunnel aims to improve the Dhaka-Chattogram-Cox's Bazar highway network, facilitating smoother traffic flow and reducing congestion on existing routes. It connects Chattogram port with Anwara Upazila, thereby enhancing trade and transportation efficiency in the region.
The Karnaphuli Tunnel has several strategically located entry and exit points:
North Entrance: Located near Chattogram city, this entrance connects to the outer ring road, providing access for vehicles coming from various parts of Chattogram.
South Entrance: Situated in Anwara Upazila, this exit allows for direct access to industrial zones and economic areas south of the river, which are expected to see increased activity due to improved connectivity.
The toll system for using the Bangabandhu Tunnel has been established to manage traffic and maintenance costs. The toll rates vary based on vehicle type:
| Vehicle Type | Toll Rate (BDT. ) |
|---|---|
| Car, Jeep | 200 |
| Pickup | 200 |
| Microbus | 250 |
| Bus (31 seats or less) | 300 |
| Bus (32 seats or more) | 400 |
| Bus (3 axles) | 500 |
| Trucks (up to 5 Tons) | 400 |
| Trucks (5.01 ton to 8 ton) | 500 |
| Truck (from 8.01 ton to 11 ton) | 600 |
| Truck/Trailer (3 Axles) | 800 |
| Truck/Trailer (4 Axles) | 1000 |
| Truck/Trailer (More than 4 axles) | 1000 + (200 per axle) |
