While countries like India boast 21 expressways, Pakistan 11, and Malaysia 38, Bangladesh has only three in operation so far. Yet, the ambition is bold—by 2041, the nation aims to build 12 more expressways at an estimated cost of Tk 1.91 lakh crore. This transformation is not just about building roads; it is about reshaping trade, travel, and the very pace of national development.

 

Currently, a mix of expressways and highways are in service, under construction, and in planning. The Dhaka–Mawa Expressway and Purbachal Expressway are already easing journeys, while the Dhaka Elevated Expressway has partially opened for commuters. At the same time, projects like the Dhaka–Ashulia Expressway, Dhaka Bypass Elevated Expressway (Joydebpur–Madanpur), and Dhaka–Sylhet Highway expansion are underway. These are complemented by upcoming ventures such as the Dhaka Outer Ring Road, East–West Elevated Expressway, and the six-lane Mawa–Benapole corridor. Together, they promise a dense network of high-speed roads spanning across the country.

 

Each of these projects brings unique value. For instance, the 39.23 km Dhaka East–West Elevated Expressway will connect Hemayetpur to both the Dhaka–Mawa and Dhaka–Chittagong highways under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), reducing congestion at the heart of the capital. The Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar highway, once upgraded to four lanes, will open smoother access to the nation’s top tourist destination. Even smaller interventions like four new bypasses and an elevated bypass, planned at a cost of Tk 4,533 crore, will relieve local bottlenecks and speed up trade routes.

 

Bangladesh’s highway expansion offers a golden opportunity for international construction companies, as the country seeks partners with advanced technology, modern engineering, and sustainable practices. With JICA-led feasibility studies and new financing channels, foreign firms can team up with local developers to deliver world-class projects. The scale, diversity, and pace of these initiatives make Bangladesh one of South Asia’s most attractive construction markets—where every new road not only improves connectivity but also unlocks economic potential. Now is the time for global enterprises to collaborate and help build the pathways to Bangladesh’s prosperous, connected future.