DHAKA: Cost of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge project has increased by around Tk 8,286.35 crore and deadline of completion extended by two more years.

The bridge project would now cost Tk 28,793.38 crore as government has allocated the additional money for the mega project once again.

Now, it will take two year more as the government has also extended the project implementation period from 2018 to 2020.

A total of Tk 20,507.2 crore was allocated for Padma Multipurpose Bridge project in the 1st revised Development Project Proposal (DPP), said sources concerned.

In an effort to boost the construction of much-awaited Padma bridge project, government added more Tk 8,286.35 crore to the project, making a total allocation of Tk 28,793.38 crore in the 2nd revised DPP.

Of the amount, government will finance Tk 27,428.38 crore while Tk 1,365.17 crore will come as project aid.

According to sources of Bridges Division, Executive Committee of National Economic Council (ECNEC) finalized the Padma bridge project on 20 August 2007, allocating a budget of Tk 10,162 crore.

With the latest boost, the project cost, however, has been increased by 39.71 percent in comparison with the allocation in the 1st revised DPP.

When contacted, Bridges Division secretary Khandakar Anwarul Islam declined to comment on the matter.

However, Bridge Division has sent a proposal on increase of project allocation to the Planning Commission.

For additional allocation, Bridge Division mentioned several reasons, including the increased cost of construction materials and consultancy services, and recruitment of more personnel in implementing the project in due time.

Planning Commission's member Arastu Khan told banglanews that they have received documents sent from Bridge Division for correction. But, they have yet to untie the files.

The documents will be reviewed in the next meeting of the commission’s project evaluation committee, he added.

According to sources of Bridge Division, construction works of Padma bridge is going on in full-swing. Works of test piling has been completed; dredging for pile construction is underway.

A 2,400-ton hammer will arrive in Mongla from China this month. Works of trial piling will begin within the month of June. Meanwhile, five percent of main bridge construction has already been completed, added the sources.

BDST: 1430 HRS, MAY 13, 2015
HB/RS/RR/SMS