For years, daily travel across the nearly 70-year-old Farakka Barrage has been a test of patience. College faculty like Arunmoy Das, commuting from Malda to Farakka, often lost one to two hours daily in traffic. Students, including Rana Haldar, reported starting their journeys at dawn with uncertainty over timely arrivals, especially during exams. The new bridge is expected to restore valuable time, reduce stress, and improve access to education and healthcare.
Economic and Business Benefits
The bridge will enable smoother transport of goods and agricultural products between North and South Bengal, benefiting producers and traders alike. Malda and Murshidabad’s mangoes and litchis will reach markets faster, enhancing freshness and profitability. Local business owners, like logistics entrepreneur Asif Hussain, anticipate higher efficiency and trip rotations, strengthening overall economic activity.
Tourism Connectivity
Tourism in North Bengal is also set for a boost. The bridge will improve access to Kulik Bird Sanctuary, Gour Malda, Adina Mosque, and hill destinations including Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong. Enhanced connectivity is expected to support tourism-led growth, benefiting hospitality and local communities.
Project Highlights
- Total length: 5.468 km
- Project cost: ₹622.04 crore
- Physical progress: 96% complete
- Designed to ease congestion on the Farakka Barrage
- Strengthens connectivity between North and South Bengal
- Facilitates inter-state movement with Jharkhand