Road Transport and Bridges Minister and General Secretary of the Awami League, Obaidul Quader, announced today that all political parties, including the BNP, will be invited to the inauguration of the Padma Bridge, even though some had previously opposed its construction.
️ Inclusive Celebration
“During the inauguration ceremony of the Padma Bridge, we will not distinguish between supporters and opponents of the project. Even those who opposed it politically will be invited. We will send letters to all,”
— Obaidul Quader, Minister for Road Transport and Bridges
Quader made these remarks in response to questions from journalists after attending a certificate distribution ceremony at the BRAC Centre in Mohakhali, Dhaka. The event marked the conclusion of a training programme for women vehicle drivers.
️ Inauguration Preparations Underway
Quader confirmed that preparations for the grand opening on 25 June have already begun. He also stated that:
- Foreign dignitaries will be invited
- World Bank’s Country Director will be among the invitees, despite the Bank’s earlier withdrawal from the project
⚖️ Invitation of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia
Asked whether BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia would receive an invitation, Quader responded:
“As the head of BNP, she is naturally expected to be invited, along with other opposition leaders. However, her participation would depend on legal permissions, as she is currently a convicted individual.”
️ Election Participation and BNP
Speaking on the upcoming general elections, Quader reiterated that the Awami League wants the BNP to participate, recognising it as a major political party.
“If you want to change the government, you must contest the election. If you dream of gaining power through conspiracy or threats of assassination, especially of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, your dream will turn into a nightmare.”
Response to Criticism Over Price Hikes
Quader addressed BNP’s criticism regarding the price increase of essential commodities, suggesting that some BNP leaders have become irrational:
“They have gone mad because they cannot accept the success of the Padma Bridge and Metrorail. These are projects they never envisioned or implemented. They are now suffering from toxic envy as Sheikh Hasina has delivered what they could not.”
Empowering Women Drivers: Certificate Distribution Ceremony
The event titled “Graduation of Women Drivers: A Step Towards Road Safety”, highlighted the empowerment of women in a traditionally male-dominated profession.
Key Figures Present:
| Name | Designation |
| Mercy Miyang Tembon | World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh |
| Nur Mohammad Mazumder | BRTA Chairman |
| Md Tazul Islam | BRTC Chairman |
| Asif Saleh | Executive Director, BRAC (Chair of the event) |
Training Programme Highlights:
| Aspect | Details |
| Batch | 6th Batch |
| Trainees | 11 total (10 women, 1 transgender individual) |
| Training Duration | 6 months (3-month residential + 3-month apprentice) |
| Training Centres | BRAC Driving Schools at Uttara, Ashkona, Niketan |
| Licensing Authority | Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) |
The initiative aims to improve road safety and promote gender equality in the transport sector.
The Padma Bridge inauguration on 25 June is set to be a historic and inclusive event, with bipartisan participation, international guests, and a celebration of infrastructure achievements under the current government. At the same time, the commitment to social initiatives like women’s driver training reflects a broader vision of development and inclusivity.