Two service bridges on Dhaka-Ashulia Expressway open to traffic

Dhaka: Two 3.71-kilometer service bridges connecting Dhour intersection with Ashulia have opened to traffic as part of the Dhaka-Ashulia Elevated Expressway project, offering relief to commuters in the area.

The two-lane bridges were built over the Turag River to maintain its natural water flow. Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Robiul Alam inaugurated the facilities on September 2.

The minister said the project had faced delays but was brought back on track after the government arranged funding and took necessary measures to accelerate construction.

He said 65-70 percent of the project had been completed over three and a half years, while additional work was carried out within the past six months without compromising quality.

Project Director Shafiqul Islam said motorists would not have to pay tolls to use the newly opened section. Toll collection will apply only to the main four-lane portion of the expressway.

Officials said the existing road between Ashulia Bazar and Dhour embankment will no longer be retained to protect the Turag’s water flow, allowing people to cross the river through the new service lanes without paying tolls.

Construction of the 24-kilometer expressway began in November 2022. Despite earlier delays, project officials said overall implementation reached 72 percent by July.

Once completed, the expressway is expected to improve connections between Dhaka and the country’s northwestern region while reducing pressure on surface roads.