The tunnel, the first of its kind in South Asia, promises to fast-track the country's road connectivity, spur the economy and promote tourism. It has two tubes and four lanes.
Terming the tunnel a gift, the prime minister said: “Vehicles will now traverse the Daijja (river), and people will reach their homes via the Daijja. I have brought you a special gift."
She was speaking at a public gathering organized by the Chittagong Metropolitan, North and South units of the ruling Awami League. The gathering was organized at the Korean EPZ ground in Karnaphuli Upazila Saturday.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Sheikh Hasina said: "My objective is to fulfill the dream of our nation's founding father."
She highlighted the issue of siltation caused by the construction of bridges across the river, saying: "The more bridges we build the more siltation we create. That's why we've made a tunnel. Now, vehicles will traverse the riverbed."
Expressing gratitude to all those involved in the tunnel's construction, the prime minister acknowledged the contributions of Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, domestic and foreign engineers, national and international consultants, administrative personnel, the navy, law enforcement agencies, and the diligent workers who dedicated day and night to this project.
Sheikh Hasina also expressed her gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying: "I proposed the idea of constructing a tunnel during my visit to China, and the president readily agreed."
"This progress has only become achievable because you cast your votes for the boat in the last election. The Bangabandhu Shilpanagar is set to be established in Mirsarai of Chittagong with a $22 billion investment proposal already in hand. Another industrial zone is under development in Anwara. We're transforming the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway into a six-lane road and upgrading the Chittagong-Cox's Bazar Highway likewise."
