The long-awaited Padma Bridge was finally opened to traffic at 6am on Sunday (June 26).

Buses, trucks, cars, motorcycles, and ambulances were seen waiting in hundreds on the Dhaka-Mawa Expressway till the gates of the bridge opened at 6am.

Besides, many people had been waiting all night to cross the mega structure. But they were jubilant nonetheless as their long-cherished dream had come true at last.

Earlier on June 25, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina unveiled the plaque of the 6.15 kilometre Padma Bridge at Mawa end in Munsiganj at a colourful ceremony where thousands of distinguished guests, including foreign diplomats, were present.

The Premier paid toll as the first traveller on the bridge.

The state-owned Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) launch buses on 23 routes, including two old ones, in the southwest via the Padma Bridge from today. 

Besides, different private transport companies are also set to launch AC and non-AC buses on the routes from today. 

Currently, a motorcyclist will have to pay Tk100 to cross the Padma Bridge and for a large bus with three axles the toll is Tk2,400 while Tk2,800 for a medium truck.

On the other hand, the rate has been set at Tk6,000 for trailer (up to four axles), Tk5,500 for truck (up to three axle), Tk2,800 for a medium truck (8-11 tonnes); Tk2,100 for a medium truck (5-8 tonnes); and Tk1,600 for a mini truck (up to five tonnes). 

However, an additional Tk1,500 will be charged for each axle for a trailer larger than four axles.

BDST: 1042 HRS, JUNE 26, 2022
MN