Pabna, Aug 27 (V7N) – The Pabna to Ishwardi highway, a critical transport artery connecting Gachpara to Dashuria, has deteriorated into a dangerous stretch of potholes and craters, causing mounting distress for drivers and passengers. Despite multiple tender attempts, the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) has failed to secure a qualified contractor to carry out much-needed repairs, leaving the 20-kilometre route in worsening condition.
On-site inspection on Tuesday afternoon revealed that while the road between Gachpara and Majidpur remains relatively intact, damage begins from Tebunia onwards. Major sections in Atmail, Kalikapur, in front of the Sugar Mill, and near Dashuria Power Plant are riddled with potholes and broken surfaces. Temporary fillings with loose gravel and pitch have not held up, especially after recent heavy rainfall, leading to further erosion and road subsidence in several areas.
Saiful Islam, a local autorickshaw driver, shared his frustration: “The road near Tebunia is the worst. Vehicles frequently break down due to the potholes. It’s hard to drive and even harder to earn a living.”
Aslam Uddin, a small trader traveling by CNG from Tebunia to Ishwardi, emphasized the road’s strategic importance. “This highway connects Pabna with Dhaka, Rajshahi, Kushtia, and both northern and southern regions. Accidents are frequent, and we travel with constant fear due to the road's condition.”
According to the RHD, the last major repair on this highway was completed five years ago. Since then, only minor, short-lived fixes have been applied. The delay in full-scale repairs stems from the department’s inability to secure an eligible contractor.
Sadequl Rahman, Sub-Divisional Engineer of Pabna RHD (Subdivision-2), explained: “A tender worth BDT 250 million was floated multiple times. The most recent was in 2024, but the participating contractors failed to meet required documentation or were blacklisted. Since August 5, due to political instability, many large contractors have withdrawn from major projects.”
He added that the RHD plans to issue a new tender shortly and hopes that a qualified contractor will be selected so that repair work can finally commence.
In the meantime, travelers continue to endure disrupted journeys, vehicle damage, and rising accident risks on one of the region’s most vital roadways.
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