Kalapara (Patuakhali) Correspondent

Demanding the development of the southern region in the national budget, a human chain program has been organized along the road for 9 demands including upgrading the highway from Kuakata to Bhanga to six lanes, making the Kuakata tourist center a modern tourist center, fully operating the Payra port, building sustainable embankments to prevent river erosion, constructing an airport in Kuakata and Barisal-Bhola bridge, at the initiative of the Kalapara civic society.

Thousands of people from all walks of life, including various social, cultural, business, political organizations, students and professionals of various professions, participated in this long human chain from Kalapara six-lane to Kuakata on Wednesday at 11 am.

The speakers at the human chain said that since several important facilities, including the tourist center, the Payra Sea Port and two 1320-kilowatt thermal power plants, are located in Kalapara, there is a constant pressure of vehicles on this road throughout the year. As the highway is narrow, traffic jams and accidents often occur.

If a six-lane highway is built, communication between the capital and the southern region will be easier, safer and more dynamic.

Speakers also said that if the Payra port is fully operational, this port will play an important role in supporting the country's economy.

The speakers said that although the national budget was announced in parliament, no allocation has been made for the development of the southern region.

The participants urged the relevant authorities of the government to take initiatives to implement the 9-point demands immediately.