Bangladesh and China signed an agreement on Thursday to construct the Ninth Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge in the country’s southern region, with Beijing providing grant financing for the main bridge and approach roads.

The bridge will be built over the Lohalia River in Patuakhali district, at the 14-kilometre point of the Lebukhali-Bauphal-Galachipa-Amragachhia district highway. Once completed, it is expected to improve transport links for residents and businesses in the Bauphal, Galachipa and Dashmina sub-districts, who rely on the Boga ferry crossing to move agricultural produce, fish and essential goods.

The total project spans approximately 2.62 kilometres, comprising a 1.348-kilometre main bridge and 1.272 kilometres of approach roads. Under the financing arrangement, China will provide grants for construction of the main bridge and approach roads, while Bangladesh will bear the costs of land acquisition, utility relocation and other ancillary expenses.

Md Moksed Ali, joint secretary (Foreign Assistance Wing) of the Road Transport and Highways Division, and Song Yang, counsellor at the Chinese embassy in Bangladesh, signed the agreement at the division’s conference room, according to a ministry statement.

The agreement forms part of efforts to improve road connectivity in southern Bangladesh and support regional economic activity.

A firm designated by the Chinese government will now prepare and finalise the bridge’s detailed design. Work is also underway on the project’s Development Project Proposal.