PM Sheikh Hasina inaugurates Padma Bridge

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has inaugurated the much-anticipated 6.15km Padma Bridge for vehicular movement.

Opening the bridge at the Mawa point at 12:00pm on Saturday, the premier has formally fulfilled the long-cherished desire of Bengali nation, especially the people of southern-western region of Bangladesh.

In the inaugural address, the premier said it has been possible to make our dream fruitful by the efforts of our people. The spirit of Bengali national has made it possible to construct the Padma Bridge. 

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said, "The Padma Bridge is not just a bridge, it is not just a brick-and-timber infrastructure. This bridge is our pride and a symbol of our ability and strength."

"It involves our passion, creativity, conviction and ability," she said. "Well done Bangladesh, we will not bow our heads. We did not bow our heads."

The Prime Minister said, "I am grateful to the people of the country. Thanks to those who left the land. The people of Bangladesh are proud. I am also happy and overwhelmed today."

To inaugurate the grand opening of the mighty bridge over Mighty Padma River, she left Tejgaon Airport for Mawa by helicopter at around 9:30 am on Saturday and reached at Mawa point in Munshiganj around 9.55am. 

The Padma Bridge is expected to increase GDP by 1.2 to 2 percent.

The country has experienced the historic opening of Padma Bridge, which is its largest bridge.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, Cabinet Secretary, Padma Bridge Project Director Shafiqul Islam accompanied her.

Inauguration program started at 10:04am.

Cabinet Secretary Khandker Anwarul Islam remarked during a program: "Padma Bridge was made feasible thanks to the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's steadfast leadership. If not, it would require 20 years and $15 billion."

The PM spoke at the event and then officially opened the long-cherished bridge by revealing the plaque.

At 10:10 am, the project authority under Bangladesh Bridge Authority performed the occasion's theme song, which was written by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.

The entire area is secured by law enforcement agencies.