Over the past 15 years, the Awami League government has undertaken significant road development initiatives in Rangamati, investing a staggering Tk11,000 crore in the construction and repair of 235km of roads and bridges. These efforts aim to enhance connectivity not only within Rangamati but also to neighboring districts, including Chittagong and the capital.
The Road and Highways Department (RHD) played a crucial role in executing major projects, channeling nearly Tk1,625 crore for road development in the district. Key projects include the Bogachhori-Langadow road under the Naniarchar-Langadow sub-project, the Chittagong-Rangamati road development by the 20-Engineer Construction Battalion (ECB) of the Bangladesh Army, and the Rangamati (Ghagra)-Chandraghona-Bangalhalia-Bandarban road.
A notable achievement is the Chunilal Dewan Bridge, a 500-meter-long bridge in Naniarchar upazila, built at a cost of Tk227.61 crore. This bridge, named after Chunilal Dewan, is the largest in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, facilitating travel to Langadow upazila and easing the journey to the popular tourist spot, Sajek Valley.
Rangamati currently boasts 17 bailey bridges, with ongoing efforts to construct seven more. The RHD reports that these bridges have significantly improved road connectivity.
Ongoing projects include a Tk287 crore initiative to construct walls along landslide-affected areas and the Border Road project, stretching 317 km along the remote borders with Myanmar and India. The Border Road, implemented by the army, involves constructing a 130km road in Rangamati.
RHD Executive Engineer Sabuj Chakma emphasizes the timeliness and positive impact of these projects, stating that improved road communication benefits locals, especially during peak tourist seasons. Stakeholders, including the Chittagong-Rangamati Motor Vehicle Owners’ Association, attest to the positive outcomes, highlighting hassle-free trips and widened roads.
As Rangamati witnesses a transformative period in infrastructural development, the community reaps the benefits of enhanced connectivity, facilitating smoother journeys and boosting local tourism.
