Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced that the beleaguered Padma Bridge project would given over to famous foreign builders to build, operate and transfer the dream bridge, as the World Bank ceased from funding the scheme.
Citing the World Bank allegation of corruption involving the Padma Bridge, she said, “They have to prove it.”
She was addressing a press conference convened at her official residence Ganabhavan on Saturday evening, on her return from Myanmar and Indonesia tours.
The premier told the journalists that the Padma Bridge would be given to private sector. “The World Bank has raised complaint about corruption over the project. They do not need to build the bridge,” she said.
She said those private-sector firms who are interested to do so would be given the work order to construct the Padma Bridge and they would earn (from toll) and run the bridge.
Sheikh Hasina said, “We will invite the foreign companies which have experience in doing such development activities.” She informed the press that a cell has already been formed and chief executive officer appointed for this purpose. “We have already invited China, Korea and Qatar.”
Sheikh Hasina said the planned Padma Bridge is very much important for the southwestern region of Bangladesh. “We have to construct the bridge at any cost.”
Regarding the Tipaimukh Dam, the premier said, “We clearly informed India that Bangladesh wouldn’t allow any construction which causes damage to Bangladesh.”
Source : PMO , e-News