Padma Bridge

The Padma Multi-Purpose Bridge is a significant engineering marvel in Bangladesh, connecting the southwestern regions of the country to the capital, Dhaka. Officially inaugurated on June 25, 2022, the bridge spans 6.15 kilometers (approximately 3.82 miles) over the Padma River, making it the longest bridge in South Asia. This two-level structure accommodates a four-lane highway on the upper deck and a single-track railway on the lower deck, enhancing transportation efficiency across the region.

Engineering and Construction

The construction of the Padma Bridge was a monumental task, marked by numerous challenges, including the river's depth and swift current. It features the world’s deepest pile foundations, reaching depths of 120 to 128 meters (393 to 420 feet), and is designed to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 9 on the Richter scale. The bridge consists of 41 spans, each measuring 150 meters (approximately 492 feet) long, supported by 61 pillars. It is expected to handle around 75,000 vehicles daily, significantly reducing travel time from southwestern districts to Dhaka to about 60-70 minutes.

The total cost of the project was approximately 30,193.39 crore BDT, funded primarily through domestic sources after initial international funding was withdrawn. The main contractor for the project was the China Major Bridge Engineering Company, with design contributions from the American firm AECOM.

Entry and Exit Points

The Padma Bridge connects several key regions through its entry and exit points:

• Mawa End (Munshiganj District): This entry point links to the Dhaka-Mawa-Bhanga Highway, facilitating access to Dhaka and other northern regions.
• Jajira End (Shariatpur District): This exit point connects to the southwestern districts, including Shariatpur and Madaripur, providing direct routes to Barishal and Khulna.

The bridge effectively links 29 districts in the southwest to the rest of the country, enhancing economic opportunities and mobility for millions of residents

Tolls

VEHICLES	PADMA BRIDGE TOLL (in BDT)
Bike (Currently Banned)	100
Car, Jeep	750
Pick-up, luxury Jeep, Prado	1,200
Microbus	1,300
Minibus	1,400
Medium Bus	2,000
Bus	2,400
Truck (up to 5 tonnes)	1,600
Truck (5 to 8 tonnes)	2,100
Truck (8 to 11 tonnes)	2,800
Truck (three axle)	5,500
Trailer (4 axle)	6,000
Trailer (4 axle above)	6,000+ (per axle 1,500)

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