You cannot judge a 50-year infrastructure project by two years of toll collection critics say
A fresh political debate has emerged after Tarique Rahman claimed that the Karnaphuli Tunnel “was not necessary.” His remarks have triggered strong reactions from political observers, economists, and infrastructure experts.
Critics argue that a national infrastructure project cannot be evaluated solely on the basis of two years of toll revenue. According to them, the tunnel is far more than just a road connection; it is a strategic component of Bangladesh’s long-term industrial and economic development plan.
Experts say the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel is expected to play a central role in supporting major projects such as the Matarbari deep-sea port, the Maheshkhali energy hub, and the growing industrial zones in Anwara. These projects depend heavily on efficient transportation of heavy machinery, raw materials, and cargo across the Karnaphuli River.
They question how Chattogram’s already congested urban roads could possibly handle the increasing pressure of container trucks and industrial transport over the next two decades without an alternative route like the tunnel.
Analysts also say that large-scale infrastructure projects are designed with long-term national planning in mind, not short-term profit calculations. According to them, the economic impact of projects like the Karnaphuli Tunnel becomes visible over decades through industrial growth, trade expansion, and regional connectivity.
Political commentators believe the issue goes beyond economics and has become part of a wider debate about responsible political leadership. They argue that while questioning corruption, project costs, or financial management is legitimate in a democracy, dismissing an entire national asset as “unnecessary” without considering its long-term strategic value reflects poor understanding of infrastructure planning.
Supporters of the project insist that the Karnaphuli Tunnel has the potential to reshape the economic landscape of southern Chattogram and strengthen Bangladesh’s future industrial corridor. They also point out that the full benefits of major infrastructure projects are rarely visible immediately after construction.
At the same time, some opposition voices maintain that citizens have every right to question the financial sustainability of mega projects, debt burdens, and actual public benefit.
The controversy surrounding the Karnaphuli Tunnel has therefore evolved into a larger discussion about Bangladesh’s development vision, long-term economic strategy, and the quality of political discourse surrounding national infrastructure.
Bengali 
English