Mognama–Barbakia Bridge May Open Alternative Route to Chattogram
A proposal has been sent to the Ministry of Local Government to construct a 100-metre-long bridge over Bholakhal canal in Pekua upazila of Cox’s Bazar, connecting Mognama Bazarpara with Bodhamajhir Ghona in Barbakia union.
The bridge, if approved and built, is expected to improve connectivity between the two areas, ease transportation of goods and create new opportunities for trade. It could also provide an alternative route linking Pekua and Kutubdia with Chattogram via Maheshkhali.
The proposal was submitted following the initiative of Home Minister and Cox’s Bazar-1 lawmaker Salahuddin Ahmed. Construction will be pursued after approval and completion of the necessary administrative and technical procedures, according to relevant sources.
Local residents expect the bridge to reduce traffic congestion around Pekua Bazar and facilitate the transportation of salt, fish and agricultural produce, benefiting the coastal region’s economy.
Seven Bridges Already Built
Seven bridges have already been built over different sections of Bholakhal canal. These include the Mognama Sharatghona–Rajakhali Notunghona Bridge, Rubber Dam Bridge in West Goakhali, Pekua Bazar–Barbakia Fashiakhali Bridge, the regional highway bridge at Moulavipara, Pekua–Barbakia Bazar Bridge, Salahuddin Bridge on the Pekua Submarine Naval Base road, and Bagujara–Sakurpar Bridge.
The proposed bridge would be the eighth over the canal, further strengthening connectivity in Pekua and improving access to education, healthcare and markets.
Long-standing Demand
Residents said Bholakhal has long been an obstacle to movement between Mognama and Barbakia. They welcomed the initiative and expressed gratitude to the home minister.
Safwanul Karim, the home minister’s personal press secretary, said a recommendation and proposal for the 100-metre bridge had been sent to the Ministry of Local Government as part of efforts to improve connectivity in the Chakaria–Pekua–Matamuhuri region. He said further steps would follow once the project receives approval.
Iqbal Hossain, general secretary of Pekua upazila BNP, said the bridge would benefit local residents in education, healthcare, agriculture and trade. It could also facilitate transportation involving Pekua, Kutubdia and the Matarbari deep-sea port in Maheshkhali.
Local social worker Akhtaruzzaman Chowdhury said the bridge could improve communication between Mognama and Barbakia while creating an alternative route to Chattogram. He urged the authorities to implement the project promptly.
Residents hope the necessary procedures will be completed soon to begin construction and fulfil their long-standing demand.
Delwar Hossain, Pekua
