The ongoing renovation work on Sitakunda section of the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway will remain suspended for 10 days to ensure a smooth journey for Eid travellers.
The Roads and Highways Department (RHD) made an official announcement stating that all renovation activities will remain suspended until July 3.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) Belal Uddin Jahangir of Baro Auliya highway police station, said, "Due to the ongoing renovation work carried out on Sitakunda section, vehicles have been limited to using a one-way road.
“This has resulted in constant traffic congestion, with hundreds of long-distance vehicles becoming stranded, causing traffic jams spanning 10 to 15 kilometres. Both passengers and drivers have been suffering as a result."
Additionally, with the approaching Eid-ul-Azha, there has been an increase in the number of sacrificial animal transportation vehicles on the highway.
Taking these factors into account, the decision was made to halt the renovation work, ensuring that Eid holidaymakers do not have to endure further difficulties.
Russell Ahmed, the project manager of Taher Brothers Ltd, the contractor of the renovation work, said "During the monsoon season, potholes tend to appear in various locations along the highway. Therefore, our intention was to complete the renovation work in crucial areas before the full onset of the monsoon.
“However, considering the inconvenience faced by the public, we have decided to suspend the work until July 3. Currently, no renovation work is being carried out."
Pintu Chakma, the executive engineer of Chattogram’s RHD, said, "Upon the request of the highway police, we have instructed the contractors to halt the road renovation work for the next 10 days for ensuring a smooth journey during the Eid period.
“However, once this period ends, they will resume the renovation work on the unfinished sections,” he added.
