Nalchiti Protest Demands Sugandha Bridge Construction

A human chain, protest march, and rally were held in Nalchiti, Jhalokati, demanding the speedy construction of a long-awaited bridge over the Sugandha River. People from all walks of life, along with leaders of social, political, and professional organizations, joined the program organized by local residents.

The hour-long program took place at 11:00 am on Wednesday (May 20) at the Nalchiti bus stand area.

Speakers said locals have long suffered due to the absence of a bridge over the Sugandha River. They stressed that the bridge is essential to improve road connectivity between Nalchiti and several districts, including Khulna, Jessore, Bagerhat, Pirojpur, Barguna, Patuakhali, and access routes to Mongla and Payra ports.

They noted that over 50,000 passengers use ferry services daily through one main ferry route and at least six landing points. Students, patients, traders, and court-bound passengers face regular hardship. During the monsoon season, river crossing becomes even more dangerous, often disrupting emergency travel.

A student named Emon said he once had to wait all night at a ferry terminal in an emergency but could not find a boat. Auto-rickshaw driver Al Amin said he was forced to pay Tk 350 for river crossing due to ferry delays. Student leader Ratul Gazi called the bridge a “life demand” for the region, while social activist Turya said it would improve local development and living conditions.

Officials noted that a bridge proposal was earlier sent to the CIBRR project through the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), but no visible progress has been made.

Speakers urged the government and concerned ministry to approve and implement the project without delay. They also warned of stronger movements if their demand is ignored.

A memorandum will be submitted to the local Member of Parliament following the program.