Padma Bridge Traffic Lags, Toll Revenue Below Expectations

Nearly three and a half years after the inauguration of the Padma Bridge, traffic volumes and toll revenues have yet to reach anticipated levels. According to official sources, the bridge has generated approximately BDT 3,000 crore in total toll income to date. While this represents a substantial inflow, it falls short of the pace required to recover the construction investment within the projected timeframe.

Initial projections had estimated that daily traffic in 2022 would reach 23,954 vehicles, increasing to 34,725 by 2029 and further rising to 66,829 by 2050. In reality, current daily traffic averages around 22,000 vehicles, with motorcycles and private cars constituting nearly one-third of this total. The proportion of larger vehicles such as buses, trucks, and freight carriers—critical for generating substantial toll revenue—remains relatively low.

Padma Bridge Traffic and Toll Comparison

The bridge is operated by the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA), an autonomous agency responsible for several major infrastructures, including the Jamuna Bridge, Muktarpur Bridge, Karnaphuli Tunnel, and the Dhaka Elevated Expressway. Toll collection at Jamuna Bridge has met projections; however, revenue from the Karnaphuli Tunnel and Muktarpur Bridge has not yet covered operating costs.

Government investment in the Padma Bridge was primarily funded through loans. Under a 35-year instalment agreement with the Finance Ministry, the BBA has already repaid BDT 2,205 crore. Additionally, BDT 414 crore has been spent on contractors managing toll collection and maintenance, with VAT contributing another BDT 384 crore. Overall, total expenditures amount to approximately BDT 2,933 crore, leaving a modest margin from the BDT 3,000 crore income.

BBA advisor Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan has cited limited industrialisation and commercial activity in the southern region as key factors for slower-than-expected traffic growth. He emphasised that, despite this, the bridge has significantly eased public travel and contributed to rising land values.

Mr Khan added that current operational costs are higher due to the contractor-led toll collection system. Once the contract concludes, the BBA intends to manage toll collection and maintenance directly, potentially reducing expenses and improving net revenue.