Construction work to upgrade a two-kilometer stretch of the Sylhet-Sunamganj regional highway to four lanes at Shantiganj Upazila headquarters has resumed after a month-and-a-half stoppage.
The Tk.75.93 crore project, implemented by contracting firm M.M. Builders & Engineers Limited under the Roads and Highways Department spans from the Textile Institute to BITAC. Work originally began in October 2025 and is scheduled for completion by June 2027. However the progress stalled recently due to a shortage of construction materials including sand.
During the hiatus unpaved earth and loose sand along Shantiganj Bazar generated heavy dust whenever vehicles passed causing severe inconvenience to pedestrians, local residents and business owners. Local traders reported that dust continuously damaged merchandise in nearby shops, prompting calls for regular water sprinkling during construction.
Work officially restarted on Tuesday. Contractor engineer Sakib Al Hasan and Sunamganj Roads and Highways Department Executive Engineer Zahirul Islam confirmed that material supply issues have been resolved and instructions have been issued to expedite progress.
Once completed the four-lane highway will significantly improve local road connectivity, ensuring smoother travel to key institutions including the Upazila Health Complex, Fire Service and Textile Institute. Local residents welcomed the resumption also urging authorities to ensure steady progress and proper dust mitigation measures.
