Position of Padma Bridge

The Padma is also under 'conquest' through an under-construction bridge near the Hardinge Railway Bridge. The question of building a Padma Bridge in the downstream has been under consideration for several years. The initial site was chosen near Aricha Ghat to join Aricha and Goalanda. But many want the bridge to be located at Maoa to join Bhanga of Faridpur (Shariatpur?). The Barisal-Madaripur people are awake and doing their bit to have the bridge in this position.

So there are two alternatives and two groups of people to fight for their own interests. But Nawabganj of Dhaka and the area of Faridpur opposite to this area have long been neglected. The road from Dhaka may go from the western side of the Gabtali-Ameen Bazaar Bridge connecting to the eastern bank of Padma at Nawabganj.

Therefore, the position of the bridge may be straighter in between Nawabganj of Dhaka and Faridpur proper. This will help develop the communication of the otherwise neglected area. This bridge will be easier to use for both the Barisal-Madaripur people and the people of Kushtia and Jessore regions. Besides, the parties of people will no more be quarrelling and calling strikes, hartals etc. for group benefits. Furthermore, the Gabtali Bus Terminal may be used for the purpose, while a new terminal would be needed if the bridge is built at Maoa-Bhanga point.