The Chaktai–Kalurghat Embankment and Road Construction Project will play a significant role in providing a permanent solution to Chattogram city’s waterlogging problem.
During the monsoon, overflowing water from canals will directly flow into the river, reducing long-term waterlogging in low-lying areas. The goal is twofold—riverbank protection and the construction of a modern road.
Locals believe that the road, along with the embankment, will not only solve the waterlogging issue but will also boost the city’s economic activities. The city will also be protected from floods and tidal surges.
The 9-kilometer project, implemented by the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA), has already reached 82% completion. Officials say the remaining 18% will be finished before June 2026.
Of the 9 km stretch from Kalurghat to Chaktai, only 0.5 km near Shah Amanat Bridge remains unfinished, while work is progressing rapidly on both sides of the 0.5 km section near Kalurghat Bridge.
Due to land acquisition and funding complications, these sections were delayed for a long time. However, project officials say there are no longer any financial issues. Once completed, travel between Kalurghat and Chaktai will take only 10 minutes. A visit to the project site shows that work on an 8 km four-lane road is nearing completion.
When asked about the quality of work, Project Director and CDA Executive Engineer Rajib Das said, to maintain quality, we compact each 8-inch sand layer before proceeding, with 20–25 layers ensuring the required thickness and density. This takes more time but ensures road durability. Compaction is a crucial step that guarantees the road’s longevity. At each stage, we identify and fix any defects. If the road is not built properly, weak foundations could cause depressions in the middle or on the sides over time, so we carefully test quality throughout construction.
This vital road, running along the banks of the Karnaphuli River, is being built 24 feet above sea level and 80 feet wide as a four-lane embankment-cum-road. Seven kilometers of carpeting work have already been completed.
The goal is to complete the project by June 2026, and around 82% of the work is done. Twelve sluice gates have been constructed between Chaktai and Kalurghat, which have prevented rainwater and tidal water from flooding the Chaktai–Khatunganj area during monsoon season. This protective embankment will play a key role in safeguarding the city.
Meanwhile, nature lovers flock to the embankment-cum-road daily with friends and family to enjoy the scenic beauty. On holidays, tourist visits increase significantly. However, due to safety concerns, visitors must leave before evening.
Visitor Kamal Parvez said, the environment here is beautiful. Saplings have been planted along the roadside, and the RCC blocks are arranged in a way that feels like seating for guests, from where you can enjoy the stunning view of the Karnaphuli River. Once the work is fully completed, Chattogram’s landscape will change dramatically. On one side of the road is the city, and on the other, the historic Karnaphuli River.
The government approved the project in an ECNEC meeting on April 25, 2017. Initially, the cost was set at Tk 2,310 crore.
Work began on November 6, 2018, with a completion target of June 2021. After several extensions, the deadline was moved to June 2024, and the budget was increased to Tk 2,779.39 crore. The timeframe has since been extended to June 2026, without any further cost increase.
