RAJSHAHI, Mar 9, (V7N) – The Western Railway has initiated plans to construct a new modern railway bridge parallel to the century‑old Hardinge Bridge, aiming to enhance rail connectivity between Rajshahi and Khulna divisions.

Built in 1915 under British rule, the Hardinge Bridge has long served as a vital link between Pakshi in Pabna and Bheramara in Kushtia, but its structural capacity has diminished over time. Currently, trains can only cross at a maximum speed of 25 km/h with an axle load of 25 tons, far below modern requirements.

The proposed new bridge will be 1.76 kilometers long, built in a steel Warren truss structure with double-line tracks across 16 spans. Each span will be elevated to ensure uninterrupted vessel movement on the Padma River. Once operational, trains will be able to travel at higher speeds with greater load capacity.

Western Railway officials said surveys are underway to assess water flow, environmental impact, and infrastructural safety. Coordination is planned with agencies including the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, GTCL, and the Roads and Highways Department to ensure construction does not disrupt the environment or river flow.

The project also envisions modernization of Pakshi and Bheramara railway stations to improve passenger services. Pakshi Station Manager Sumi Khatun noted that the new bridge would ease passenger and goods transport significantly.

Western Railway GM Farid Ahmed said, “The current Hardinge Bridge is more than a hundred years old and structurally limited. A new double-line bridge will increase speed, load capacity, and make rail communication faster and safer.”

Authorities believe the new bridge will usher in a new era of rail connectivity, accelerating economic and commercial activities in the western region.

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