Core Points - The Dhaka Bypass Expressway, partially opened on August 24, significantly reduces travel time from 1.5 hours to 20 minutes, enhancing transportation efficiency for goods like chicken feet [1][4] - The project, spanning approximately 48 kilometers with a total investment of $412 million, connects key industrial areas in northern and northeastern Bangladesh and serves as a vital route between Dhaka and Chittagong, the country's second-largest city [2][4] - The expressway is the first public-private partnership (PPP) road project in Bangladesh since the PPP law was enacted and represents a significant achievement in the "Golden Bangladesh" vision and the Belt and Road Initiative [4] Economic Impact - The expressway alleviates traffic congestion in Dhaka, a city with over 20 million residents, thereby facilitating economic development and improving living standards [4] - Local residents, such as those in Dorjibari village, benefit from reduced travel times, allowing for better market access for agricultural products like mangoes and jackfruits, which can now be sold at higher prices [4] - The project is expected to create approximately 800 long-term jobs in toll management and smart operations, contributing to local employment and skill development [6] Technological and Environmental Innovations - The construction utilized local materials, such as fine sand from riverbeds, to address the scarcity of gravel, and introduced cement-stabilized sand technology to improve road durability [5] - The project incorporates clean energy and waste recycling measures, aligning with Bangladesh's ecological and sustainable development goals [5] - The introduction of Chinese technology and standards during construction is expected to enhance local infrastructure development and provide a model for future projects [5][6] Strategic Significance - The expressway is seen as a physical manifestation of the friendship between China and Bangladesh, symbolizing mutual aspirations for a better future and the strengthening of bilateral strategic cooperation [7]
达卡绕城高速公路打造孟加拉国通衢