Photo : Messenger
The Bangabandhu Tunnel, named in honor of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, is a remarkable engineering feat that transcends its physical existence. The 3.32-kilometer tunnel has brought Bangladesh numerous benefits, such as increased environmental awareness, quicker economic growth, and enhanced connectivity. The Bangabandhu Tunnel first and foremost symbolises Bangladesh's technological prowess, unshakable determination, and possibly most importantly, the people's limitless potential. It is a prominent figure in the history of the entire nation. It represents economic growth and prosperity and connects the people of Bangladesh to a better future.
The vision to build a tunnel to connect the two banks of the Karnaphuli River and improve connectivity inside the Chattogram region was the audacious plan, which meant to improve transit between Chattogram, the region's main city, and Cox's Bazar, a quaint seaside town, as well as relieve the long-standing traffic congestion in the area.
But turning this wonderful notion become a reality wasn't a simple feat. It took thirteen years of relentless effort, heated discussions, and meticulous planning to finish the Bangabandhu Tunnel. With more stakeholders supporting the late mayor's unwavering belief, the biggest infrastructure project in Bangladeshi history got underway.
The port city on Saturday, the 28th October, 2023 witnessed country's historic entry into a new era of connectivity as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina opened the much-anticipated 3.32km underwater expressway tunnel, first of its kind in South Asia, beneath the River Karnaphuli. The Tunnel has been opened for vehicular movement from the following day.
The Spectrum of Positive Aspects and Impacts
Economic Prosperity
The Bangabandhu Tunnel is essential for economic growth, particularly in the Chattogram region and beyond. Because the tunnel shortens travel times within the city and eases traffic, it has spurred investment and industrial expansion.
Most significantly, the tunnel connects to the Mirsharai Economic Zone, a significant hub for employment expansion and industrial development. Many significant projects are currently located in this zone, including the Cox's Bazar Coal Power Plant, the China Industrial Zone, the Korean Export Processing Zone (EPZ), and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar.
For new enterprises to thrive in this economic zone, commodities and raw materials must be transported with efficiency. Because the Bangabandhu Tunnel offers direct access to this area, it promotes investment and opens up job opportunities. In short, its role is to provide the foundation for South Chattogram's expansion, which is essential to bringing the area closer to economic development.
Touristic Enchantment
There are now more options for transit thanks to the tunnel, particularly in Cox's Bazar, a quaint beach town known for its spotless sandy beaches. Foreign and local visitors will find it easier to go to this much-desired location thanks to the tunnel's improved connectivity.
Cox's Bazar, sometimes known as the "Queen of the Bay of Bengal," is a well-liked holiday spot because of its breathtaking natural beauty. It can graciously welcome more tourists now that it is more accessible, which will strengthen the local economy and give residents more possibilities for a living.
Environmental Responsibility
In addition to being technically sound, the Bangabandhu Tunnel also demonstrates environmental care. When building the tunnel, great care was taken to ensure that the ecosystem around the Karnaphuli River suffered as little harm as possible.
As Bangladesh moves closer to sustainability and environmental friendliness, the Bangabandhu Tunnel serves as a shining example of moral and ecological construction practices. The way environmental issues are included into these massive programmes demonstrates the nation's commitment to a more sustainable and greener future.
Simplified Trade and Commerce
The economic corridor connecting Dhaka and Chattogram is the centre of commerce and business in Bangladesh. The Bangabandhu Tunnel expedites the flow of goods between the Chattogram seaport and the bustling industrial and commercial areas of Dhaka, hence promoting trade between these vital economic zones.
As a result, it promotes more international and national trade. As a result, logistical barriers are removed and economic growth is encouraged. The ability of the tunnel to make the flow of commodities easier significantly boosts Bangladesh's GDP (gross domestic product).
Regional Advancement
The Bangabandhu Tunnel's advantages extend far beyond its immediate surroundings since it fosters growth in South Chattogram and the neighbouring districts. Developing the nation's industries, growing the economy, and constructing infrastructure all contribute to making sure that growth is dispersed more equally across the board.
The tunnel's placement acts as a spur for the expansion of the surrounding area as development moves outside of it. Improved transit makes it possible for businesses to access the economic zone more frequently, which boosts employment growth and the economy as a whole.
Enhanced Connectivity
One of the Bangabandhu Tunnel's biggest benefits is the enhanced connectivity it provides Bangladesh. The tunnel provides a more efficient path between the Chattogram region and the rest of the country, accelerating travel and reducing traffic congestion. This benefits both people and businesses because of the higher level of living and simpler commuting.
Additionally, the tunnel strengthens ties between the Chattogram region and two neighbouring nations, India and Myanmar. This regional collaboration and interconnectedness lead to stronger diplomatic ties as well as increased opportunities for trade and business.
Creating Employment Opportunities
The development of the Bangabandhu Tunnel alone created thousands of new employment opportunities for the inhabitants. Workers and engineers with a variety of educational backgrounds and skill levels worked on the project. The local and regional economies will greatly benefit from the job opportunities created by the tunnel's operation and maintenance.
Strategic Geopolitical Significant
The Bangabandhu Tunnel is strategically and geopolitically significant in the region. It facilitates communication between Bangladesh and its neighbours, including India and Myanmar. Thanks to this improved relationship, it is now able to promote trade, establish diplomatic relations, and promote regional cooperation. It is crucial to forging stronger international relations and elevating cooperation and diplomacy to the region's fundamental values.
Safety and Reliability
Priority one in the design and construction of the tunnel is given to safety and dependability. Both the integrity of the tunnel and the safety of its users were ensured by the use of contemporary construction methods and materials. The tunnel has been updated with modern safety features, like fire suppression equipment and emergency response methods, turning it from a technological marvel into a dependable and secure path.
Concluding Remarks
The Bangabandhu Tunnel symbolises Bangladesh's unbounded potential, prosperity, and wealth, not just a construction project. Bangladesh's imaginative leadership and tireless dedication have developed an engineering masterpiece that has revolutionised its economy, boosted regional growth, and made it a South Asian beacon of prosperity. The Bangabandhu Tunnel represents a connected, affluent Bangladesh, a road to a brighter future for all Bangladeshis, and a model for nations with vision. It shows that nations with ingenuity, vision, and hard effort can overcome any challenge and become stronger, wealthier, and more integrated. The Bangabandhu Tunnel symbolises hope and progress in Bangladesh's history. It symbolises Bangladesh's desire to flourish and a future where individuals can achieve their ambitions. The Bangabandhu Tunnel will transform the nation and leave a legacy.
The writer is author and senior finance professional
Messenger/Disha
