Rangpur’s 550km road network deteriorates after years of neglect

Around 550 kilometres of roads in Rangpur district and city have been in poor condition for years, causing daily hardships for commuters, students, transport workers, and patients.

According to the Deputy Inspector General’s office, 76 road accidents in the past two years have resulted in 51 deaths and 356 injuries. Many roads are severely damaged with deep potholes and cracks, making travel dangerous and difficult.

Data from local authorities shows 240 kilometres of roads in eight upazilas are in poor condition, with significant stretches in Bhedarganj, Gangachara, Kaunia, Mithapukur, Pirgachha, Pirganj, Taraganj, and Sadar. The city’s 300 kilometres of roads are also badly deteriorated, with some areas becoming virtual death traps.

The Roads and Highways Department reports 11 kilometres of its network are in critical shape, including sections frequently flooded and eroded.

A Tk7 crore repair project proposal has been pending approval since March last year, with additional funding of Tk38 crore still unfunded. Local engineering officials say Tk120 crore is needed for rural roads and Tk210 crore for city roads, but insufficient funds have been approved.

Residents and transport owners complain of frequent accidents and rising maintenance costs. Authorities say funding requests are underway, with hopes that repairs will soon begin.