The New Nation - Internet Edition

From various sources we came to know that Jamuna Bridge is not only one of the longest bridges but it is also the longest railway bridge in the world. We, however, do not have any confirmed information as to which is and where it is the longest railway bridge in the world.

We have built our Jamuna Bridge of billions of dollars at the cost of our sweat and blood for safe, easy and quick journey of our people and transportation of our goods and commodities across the Jamuna river at all time, in all seasons, round the year for one hundred years to come.

But unfortunately, within a short span of time Jamuna Bridge has developed cracks in many places due to violent flow of river Jamuna during active monsoon season and also on account of heavy weight for running trains on the bridge.

The durability and longevity of Jamuna Bridge is now at stake. Are we living in a fool's paradise? Does not a stitch in time save nine?

Ninety per cent people of our country knew and believed that the long awaited dream of Jamuna Bridge was fulfilled and built for road communication and not for railway communication.

Can't we lessen the operation of train service before it is too late and be contented, satisfied and benefited by running only motor vehicles and ensure proper repair, maintenance, durability and longevity of Jamuna Bridge? Would our foresighted leaders and policy makers consider the relevant matters seriously in our greater national interest?

O.H. Kabir

Dhaka

Agricultural Biotechnology Support Project (ABSP) funded by the USAID and led by Cornell University, USA is supporting agricultural development through biotechnology. The ABSP focuses on the safe and effective development and commercialisation of bio-engineering crops as a complement to traditional and organic agricultural approach in developing countries including Bangladesh. The project is aimed at boosting food security, economic growth, nutrition and environmental quality. The Project has already some significant accomplishments in Bangladesh. Interested individuals, research and educational organizations may contact, Country Coordinator ABSPII for Bangladesh Dr. Gour Pada Das over Email : absp2@mtlbd.net

Professor M Zahidul Haque

Chairman,

Department of Agricultural Extension & Information System,

Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka.