The OPEC Fund for International Development has signed a $75 million loan agreement with Bangladesh to improve connectivity and accessibility between the rural southwest regions and the capital Dhaka.
The OPEC Fund loan will co-finance the construction of the Nalua-Baherchar Bridge over the Pandab-Paira River and build access roads. This project will improve connectivity between Dhaka and the southwest districts of Barisal and Patukhali, where agriculture and fishing are key economic activities. Because travelers currently cross the river by ferry, the project will reduce travel time and costs while also allowing agricultural produce to reach marketplaces faster. The government of Bangladesh is also co-financing the project.
Bangladesh’s rapid economic growth has increased the demand for energy, transportation, and urban development. Infrastructure development is critical for improving the country’s competitiveness and economic efficiency. As part of its latest Fiv
