The reconstruction of the Fateh Ali Bridge over the Karatoya River in Bogra city remains unfinished despite multiple deadline extensions, causing prolonged suffering for more than 10-lakh people.
According to sources, residents of Bogra city and the eastern upazilas—Gabtoli, Sariakandi, and Sonatala—have been enduring severe communication disruptions for the past two years due to the incomplete project.
The reconstruction of Fateh Ali Bridge was launched under the previous Awami League government, with the design and budget approved on July 31, 2022. The bridge was planned to span 69 meters in length and 12.3 meters in width, including 2.5-meter sidewalks on both sides, at an estimated cost of Tk 22 crore.
The contract was awarded to Messrs Jamil Iqbal, with an initial completion deadline of May 2024. The deadline was later extended to January 1, 2025, but the project remains unfinished.
Field reports indicate that approximately 87% of the structural work has been completed. However, key elements such as railings and finishing works are still pending. Temporary bamboo barriers have been installed, yet both vehicles and pedestrians continue to use the bridge, exposing themselves to significant risk. Accidents have already been reported, including the death of a 22-year-old visually impaired man, Farhad, who fell into the river while crossing on February 23.
The bridge remains a vital route for hundreds of thousands of daily commuters, including residents of eastern Bogra and neighboring areas such as Gabtali, Sariakandi, and Sonatola. Although access roads have been developed, the incomplete structure continues to cause hardship.
Local residents have raised concerns over encroachment on the sidewalks by vendors and parked auto-rickshaws, which severely restrict safe movement, particularly for students and elderly pedestrians. They have called for the immediate completion of the project and removal of illegal obstructions.
Rashedul Haque, Executive Engineer of the Roads and Highways Department in Bogra , stated that the project has reached 87% completion. He added that the remaining work will be carried out without revising the contract value. Materials are already in place, and construction is ongoing at night due to daytime constraints. Authorities expect the remaining work, including final finishing, to be completed within the next two months.