Bridge Division Secretary and Executive Director of Bangladesh Bridge Authority Mohammad Abdur Rouf has said that the government is working to ensure the highest standards for the Karnaphuli Tunnel by using the latest technology.
“No negligence in tunnel safety and maintenance is desirable. By using modern technology, we must ensure the highest standards for this mega project, like in developed countries,” he told engineers, instructing them to complete installation on time with proper quality.
The bridge secretary made the remark during a day-long inspection of the country’s first underwater tunnel in Chattogram on Wednesday, according to a press release.
The bridge secretary inspected the overall progress of tunnel operation and maintenance activities, observing new revenue strategies and the installation of modern equipment for infrastructure safety.
“The honourable prime minister has provided directives to modernise the communication system across the country. To implement this goal, the minister and state minister of Road Transport and Bridges are working tirelessly,” the secretary said.
The secretary first visited the jetty area of Karnaphuli Dry Dock Limited adjacent to the tunnel. He later held an exchange meeting with stakeholders on increasing toll revenue by enhancing tunnel usage through the dry dock jetty.
“It is necessary to increase cargo traffic and logistics facilities to make this tunnel a key driving force of the country’s economy, more effective,” he said.
Through integrating the dry dock jetty with the tunnel, it is possible to increase users and boost revenue for the state treasury, he added, advising formulation of a coordinated action plan quickly.
According to the statement, work is currently underway to install advanced technology health monitoring equipment to ensure long-term durability and structural safety of the tunnel.
The secretary also inspected the automatic sensor and monitoring system inside the facility. Through this technology, it will be possible to monitor air circulation, earthquake resilience, and any cracks or defects through real-time data, the statement read.
Managing Director of Karnaphuli Dry Dock Limited Abdur Rashid, senior officials of Bangladesh Bridge Authority, and other officials were also present.
