Bhola Bridge
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Bhola Bridge Bhola–Barishal Bridge | |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 22°42′26″N 90°31′39″E / 22.707223°N 90.527544°E |
| Carries | Motor vehicles |
| Crosses | |
| Characteristics | |
| Total length | 10.867 kilometres (6.752 mi) |
| Width | 20.25 metres (66.4 ft) |
| No. of lanes | 4 |
| History | |
| Construction start | January 2026 |
| Construction cost | ৳17,466.32 crore |
| Opening | 2033 |
| Location | |
 Interactive map of Bhola Bridge Bhola–Barishal Bridge | |
Bhola Bridge or Bhola–Barishal Bridge is a planned bridge in Bangladesh.[1]
The bridge is expected to connect the island district of Bhola with the mainland by road and facilitate gas supply and transportation.[2][3]
Once completed, it is expected to become the longest bridge in Bangladesh.[4]
In December 2019, Awami League leader Tofail Ahmed announced that construction of the Bhola–Barishal bridge would begin by 2021.[5]
In 2020, the government formally initiated planning for the bridge, estimating the cost at approximately ৳9,922 crore.[6]
Based on feasibility studies and surveys, the bridge location was proposed between the Bheduria ferry terminal in Bhola and the Laharhat ferry terminal in Barishal.[7]
On 27 April 2025, a civic organization named Agamir Bhola organized a rally in front of the National Press Club demanding the construction of the bridge, establishment of a medical college, and gas connections in Bhola.[8]
On 8 May 2025, senior government officials visited the proposed site and announced that construction would begin in January 2026.[1]
Further demonstrations were held on 16 May 2025 demanding early commencement of the project.[9]
Location
The bridge will connect Barishal and Bhola across the Tentulia and Kalabadar rivers, linking the southern island region with mainland Bangladesh.
Economic impact
Bhola District is the only island district in Bangladesh, located in the Barisal Division. The district has an area of 3,403.48 square kilometres (1,314.09 mi2).[10]
According to the 2022 census, the population of the district is 1,932,518.[11]
Due to its island geography, Bhola is currently separated from mainland Bangladesh and relies primarily on ferry services and small boats for transportation. This limited connectivity has negatively affected trade, economic growth, and social development in the district.
The construction of the bridge is expected to significantly improve transportation, trade, and access to services in the region.