Mansur Alam,Pabna Correspondnent: Construction of the new bridge over the Ichamati River between Nandanpur and Khanmahmudpur villages in Santhia upazila, Pabna, is advancing swiftly under the “Construction of Important Bridges on Rural Roads (Phase 2)” project funded by the Government of Bangladesh.

The project is being implemented by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), with continuous supervision by the Santhia Upazila Engineer. The structure—officially titled “124.20-meter Bridge Construction over the Ichamati River at 2,350-meter Chainage of Dhopadah UP–Nandanpur Bazar R&H via Khanmahmudpur River Dam Road”—will be 124.20 meters long.
Its design includes:

• 50m Arch Girder Span (Center)
• PSC Girder Span 2×25m = 50m
• RCC Slab Span 2×12m = 24m

The estimated cost of the bridge is Tk 28 crore 2 lakh 51 thousand 808, while the contract value stands at Tk 24 crore 92 lakh 83 thousand 986. Construction began on 3 July 2025, with a completion target of 19 November 2026. The project is being executed by contractors ICL Private Limited and OC (JV) Jessore, who are expected to finish the work on schedule.

During a site visit on Saturday (15 November) around 11:30 am, significant activity was observed. Construction materials and equipment—including rods, cement, stones, mixer machines, water removal pumps, welding tools, soil extraction vacuums, and heavy piling machinery—were actively in use.

Santhia Upazila Engineer Md. Zahurul Islam, present at the site, confirmed that the bridge has been designed using modern engineering principles combined with local knowledge. “Navigation facilities have been incorporated so that boats can move freely under the bridge. Additionally, approach roads on both sides will ensure smooth movement,” he said.

Local residents believe the bridge will bring transformative change. Once completed, it will facilitate business, trade, transportation, waterway connectivity, and education across the region. Communication between Nandanpur and Dhopadaha unions will become easier, while fulfilling the long-standing dream of villagers—especially those of Khanmahmudpur—to have a permanent structure for crossing the river.

The construction will also eliminate the need for the centuries-old manual river crossing system. With modern navigation facilities included, the site is expected to support improved water transport and even enhance the appeal of traditional boat races held annually.

The rapid progress of the project has raised hopes that a new era of communication and economic growth is on the horizon for the people of Santhia upazila.