Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will inaugurate the first phase of the historic Padma Barrage project next February, Minister of Water Resources Md. Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee announced on Sunday.
Speaking during an inspection of the project site in Sujanagar upazila, Pabna, the minister described the multi-billion-taka undertaking as a crucial mega-project designed to benefit nearly 70 million people across Bangladesh's southwestern region.
The initial phase will begin with an investment of BDT.35,000 crore, with total costs expected to reach BDT.50,000 to 55,000 crore upon completion of the second phase. The construction timeline is estimated at seven years under the direction of the Ministry of Water Resources and the Bangladesh Water Development Board.
Originally envisioned in 2004 by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, the project was stalled due to political decisions. Project Director Hasan Mahmud confirmed that the barrage will connect Sujanagar in Pabna with Rajbari district, transforming water management, agriculture and irrigation across 19 districts.
Construction of a barrage on Padma River will be featured of 78 gates that will remain open during the monsoon season to streamline natural water flow. The hydroelectric power generation capability for eight months of the year also providing vital operational support to the nearby Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. Improving the lives of one-third of the country's population through enhanced water security and agricultural productivity.
The inspection meeting was attended by State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azadi, Parliamentary Standing Committee Chairman Shafiqul Islam Milon, local Members of Parliament and senior district officials.
