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An initiative has been taken to upgrade a crucial 23-kilometre section of the 159-kilometre Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway to six lanes, with a focus on reducing traffic congestion and accidents while protecting the natural environment and wildlife sanctuaries.
The feasibility study for widening the highway has gained fresh momentum following Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s announcement in favour of the project.
The study is currently being conducted on five traffic-prone sections in the initial phase: Patiya Bypass, Dohazari, Keranihat, Lohagara and Chakaria.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is expected to provide funding for the project, according to sources.
Besides widening the road, authorities are planning to construct overpasses at locations where necessary to ease traffic congestion.
The Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar road, designated as National Highway N-1, is narrow and has several dangerous bends that frequently cause accidents.
At least 200 people have reportedly been killed in accidents on the highway over the past three years, particularly in areas of Satkania, Lohagara and Chunti. Local residents have long demanded that the highway be upgraded to six lanes.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced the plan to widen the highway to six lanes during a public meeting in Chakaria, Cox’s Bazar, on June 13, 2026. Following the announcement, survey activities for the project have been accelerated.
Mohammad Sohaib, coordinator of the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Six-Lane Implementation Council and an assistant professor in the Department of Development Studies at Chattogram University, said the decision reflected a long-standing demand of local residents.
He described the Prime Minister’s announcement as a positive and encouraging development towards upgrading the highway.