Rajshahi, Jan 11 (V7N) – The long-anticipated road widening project from Baneshwar in Puthia Upazila, Rajshahi to Ishwardi in Pabna has hit a major roadblock. The project, aimed at easing transportation across the 54-kilometer stretch, remains incomplete due to unresolved land acquisition complications at Charghat Bazar and Bagha Bazar.

Despite the project's completion in other areas, stalled construction in these busy markets has caused severe traffic congestion and frequent accidents. Journeys that should take only 5 minutes are now dragging on for 1 to 2 hours, causing frustration among daily commuters and transport operators.

Nayan Islam, a local landowner in Charghat Bazar, voiced his frustration, saying, "We haven’t received any compensation yet, and we don’t know when we will." Similar complaints were echoed by Enamul Haque Jhantu, Shahin Ali, and Imdadul Haque in Bagha Bazar, where most landowners are still awaiting payments.

Total Length: 54 km

Cost: Tk 5.54 billion

Expansion: From 18 feet to 34 feet wide

Original Deadline: December 31, 2022

Extended Deadline: Completed in December 2023, except for Charghat and Bagha

Sanjida Afrin Jhinuk, Executive Engineer of the Rajshahi Roads and Highways Department, assured that the tender process is complete and work will resume within one month. She added, "The land acquisition funds have been handed over to the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. The DC will address pending payments."

However, Rajshahi District Land Acquisition Officer, Mithila Das, admitted to being unaware of the current status, citing her recent appointment. She promised to look into the matter promptly.

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