Role of Padma Bridge in Economic Development

The Padma Bridge is estimated to increase the GDP of the country by more than one percent. It will benefit about three crore people across 21 south-western districts of Bangladesh. These districts will be connected with the growth centres through better connectivity. They can be used as economic corridors. This will create opportunities for employment and income. The transportation system will be improved as movement of people will be enhanced. Supply chains within the country will be connected better. Goods and services will move smoothly from one place to another. People from the south-western parts of the country are also expected to have better access to education, healthcare and other services. Not only will people move to the urban areas easily, opportunities will also come to the rural areas. This will change the rural economy which is already undergoing transformation. The share of the agriculture sector to the GDP of the country has declined significantly with the emergence of non-farm activities in the rural areas. This was facilitated by several factors including better communication and connectivity. The plants will grow into little bushes.