Jokerchar Bridge Construction Resumes After Six-Year Deadlock Over Contractor Fraud

Construction of a vital bridge over the New Dhaleshwari River at Jokerchar in Tangail has been stalled for six years leaving millions of commuters in prolonged distress. Intended to serve as a crucial alternative route to the Jamuna Bridge-Dhaka Highway and ease chronic Eid traffic congestion the project has seen only three pillars built since 2020.

According to the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) the initial Tk 34.4 crore project was awarded to a joint venture in September 2020. However severe internal conflicts, allegations of forged signatures and fraudulent subcontracting immediately derailed the work. The lead contractor, Md. Hekmat Ali reportedly collected over Tk 9.8 crore after constructing just three pillars. Following the government changeover on August 5 Ali went into hiding, effectively abandoning the site.

Other partners and subcontractors allege Ali forcefully halted their progress, seized control of the site, and misappropriated funds. This prolonged deadlock has caused immense suffering for residents of Tangail Sadar and Kalihati upazilas who desperately need the connectivity this bridge promises for the northern regions.

Recognizing the public toll the LGED has finally intervened. Executive Engineer Jahanar Parveen confirmed that the previous contract collapsed due to the contractors' internal disputes though partial bills were settled for the completed pillars. To resolve the crisis a fresh tender was issued on March 9. The remaining construction has been awarded to the Chowdhury-Elhoz Joint Venture which is scheduled to complete the bridge within the next 22 months renewing hopes for this essential transport link.