The Padma Bridge has officially completed three years since its inauguration on June 25, 2022. In this period, an impressive 1.89 crore vehicles have crossed the bridge, generating a total of more than Tk 2,452.82 crore in toll revenue. It directly connects southwestern Bangladesh to the capital’s transport network, improving road connectivity and boosting economic activities through lower logistics costs and faster travel times. A single-day record was set recently with Tk 5.43 crore collected in tolls from 52,487 vehicles crossing during the Eid-ul-Azha holiday—a new high since the bridge opened Earlier, the highest tally was Tk 4.89 crore on April 9, 2024, and the bridge’s previous record for vehicle count—51,316—was on its opening day. Officials from the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) noted that the bridge continues to ensure smooth travel for holidaymakers, especially during peak periods. The daily flow includes vehicles from both Mawa and Jajira ends, with around 16,500 and nearly 36,000 vehicles respectively recorded on record-setting days. The total toll collection of Tk 2,452.82 crore is nearing the initial construction cost of the bridge, which was Tk 30,193 crore. According to the national financing plan, loan repayment is projected to be completed by 2057, based on current toll revenue and a repayment cycle of 140 quarterly installments. The impact of the bridge extends beyond toll revenue. It has reduced travel time significantly—journeys from Dhaka to Barishal or Khulna that used to take 8–10 hours are now shortened to 3–4 hours. This improvement supports: Trade: Lower transport costs make it more efficient to move agricultural and industrial goods from the southwest to major markets. Local economies: Enhanced connectivity encourages new business investment and tourism in previously remote areas. Everyday travel: Commuters benefit from reduced travel time and improved access to urban services and markets. Looking ahead, ongoing projects like the Dhaka–Mawa–Bhanga Elevated Expressway and six-lane highway construction extending from Bhanga toward Benapole are accelerating regional development. To sum up, the Padma Bridge has proven its worth over three years by generating impressive toll revenue, achieving record levels of traffic, and significantly enhancing local connectivity. As infrastructure investments continue, the bridge is set to further enhance economic growth and social integration across southwestern Bangladesh.
