Unlock Meghna Bridge Secrets: History, Views & Joy
The Meghna Bridge isn’t just a crossing—it’s a vital connector, a scenic drive, and a historic marvel. As part of the Dhaka–Chattogram highway, it helps millions travel safely across one of the largest rivers in Bangladesh. Whether you’re a local commuter, a cross-country traveler, or a visitor seeking scenic routes, the Meghna Bridge offers a compelling reason to stop, admire, and experience.
In this in-depth guide from Care To Travel News, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—routes, tolls, construction history, fun facts, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips.
Quick Facts About Meghna Bridge
- 📍 Location: Near Daudkandi, Comilla District
- 📏 Meghna Bridge Length: Approximately 1.48 km
- 🛣️ Type: Concrete bridge with four-lane highway access
- 🧭 Distance to Dhaka: ~120 kilometers
- 💸 Meghna Bridge Toll Rate: BDT 200–1,000 depending on vehicle type
History of Meghna Bridge Construction
When first opened in 1991, the Meghna Bridge transformed connectivity between Dhaka and Chittagong. At the time, ferries were the only option. The bridge—built with the help of Japanese funding—was a monumental step in modernizing Bangladesh’s road transport infrastructure.
Key Milestones:
- 1988: Construction began
- 1991: The First Meghna Bridge opened to the public
- 2002–2005: The Second Meghna Bridge construction commenced to handle overflow
- 2019: Expansion under the Bangladesh-Japan friendship bridge program
Engineers used innovative pile-driving techniques to counter the Meghna River’s deep channels and strong currents.
Meghna Bridge Location and How to Get There
Getting to the Meghna Bridge is easy, especially if you’re coming from Dhaka.
From Dhaka:
- 🚌 Bus: Depart from Sayedabad or Mohakhali bus stations. Journey time is 2.5 to 3 hours.
- 🚗 Private Car/Ride-Sharing: Take the N2 Highway (Dhaka–Chattogram Highway). The road is scenic and smooth.
- 🚆 Rail Option: Use routes passing through Bhairab and Comilla, then transfer to local transport.
Meghna Bridge to Dhaka Distance:
- Distance: ~120 km
- Estimated Drive Time: 2.5–3 hours in normal traffic
- Best Travel Time: Early morning or after 8 PM to avoid traffic
Meghna Bridge Toll Rate (Updated 2025)
The bridge toll helps fund maintenance and operations. Here’s a breakdown of the current Meghna Bridge toll rate:
| Vehicle Type | Toll Rate (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Private Car | 200 |
| Microbus | 300 |
| Pickup Van | 400 |
| Bus (Large) | 1000 |
| Truck (Medium) | 800 |
| Truck (Heavy) | 1200 |
| Motorcycle | 100 |
📝 Tip: Keep small change handy. Mobile payment options are available, but not always reliable.
Meghna Gumti Bridge: Sister Structure
Adjacent to the Meghna Bridge is the Meghna Gumti Bridge, crossing over the Gumti River, which joins the Meghna near Daudkandi.
- 📅 Opened: 1995 (first bridge), 2019 (second parallel bridge)
- 🔧 Used by both commercial and private vehicles
- 💡 Reduces traffic between Daudkandi and Comilla
The Meghna and Meghna-Gumti Bridges function as a dual artery system for East–West travel.
Meghna Railway Bridge: Tracks Over Water
The Meghna Railway Bridge supports rail transport across the same river. Managed by Bangladesh Railway, it connects Bhairab and Ashuganj.
- 🚂 Used by: Intercity trains including Mahanagar Express
- 🛠️ New Bridge Under Construction (2025): Designed to carry faster, heavier trains
- 📷 Photography Tip: Capture the train gliding across the water during golden hour!
Second Meghna Bridge: Handling Overflow
Built next to the original bridge, the Second Meghna Bridge helps reduce congestion.
- 💪 Built for Heavy Load: Supports large container trucks
- 🛤️ Modern Engineering: Reinforced concrete and flood-resistant designs
- 🕐 Quick Crossing: Cuts crossing time by half during peak traffic
Together, the first and second bridges manage over 40,000 vehicles daily.
Bhairab Bridge Over Meghna River
Near Bhairab Bazar lies another stunning structure—the Bhairab Bridge.
- 🛤️ Used by trains and vehicles
- 🌉 Scenic and less crowded
- 🛶 Close to local boat markets
This bridge connects Kishoreganj and Brahmanbaria, offering a peaceful alternative route.
Destination Highlights Near Meghna Bridge
There’s more to this trip than just the bridge! Here are the must-see attractions around the Meghna River zone:
1. Daudkandi Riverside Market
- Try fresh hilsha (ilish) fish
- Local jhalmuri and street tea stalls
- Souvenirs from rural artisans
2. Meghna Eco Park (Upcoming)
- Nature walkways and picnic zones
- Birdwatching and fishing experiences
3. Bhairab Bazar
- Bustling with commerce
- Offers river cruises and street photography
4. Comilla Tourist Spots
- Mainamati Ruins
- Shalban Vihara Buddhist Monastery
- Comilla War Cemetery
🌟 Tip: Travel with a local guide to learn hidden histories.
Best Time to Visit Meghna Bridge
Seasonality matters for river travel and bridge crossings.
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Summer | Clear skies, heavy traffic |
| Monsoon | Strong currents, risky for boat travel |
| Winter | Best time—cool breeze, clear views |
🌅 Golden Hour Tip: Visit just after sunrise or before sunset for dramatic river views.
Local Travel Tips
Stay comfortable and safe with these traveler-tested suggestions:
- ✅ Avoid peak Eid holidays—traffic triples
- ✅ Fill up on fuel before Comilla, fewer stations near the bridge
- ✅ Carry cash, especially in rural markets
- ✅ Use sunscreen—sunlight reflects strongly on the water
- ✅ Watch for potholes just before the approach road
Common Myths About Meghna Bridge
Let’s debunk a few misconceptions:
- ❌ Myth: “You can’t stop on the bridge.”
✅ Truth: Vehicles can’t stop, but there are scenic pullouts nearby. - ❌ Myth: “The bridge is unsafe during monsoon.”
✅ Truth: It’s flood-tested and built to modern standards. - ❌ Myth: “Only trucks use the second bridge.”
✅ Truth: All vehicles use it to bypass congestion. - ❌ Myth: “Photography is banned.”
✅ Truth: Photography is fine if you’re not blocking traffic.
FAQs: All Your Questions Answered
Q: What is the Meghna Bridge to Dhaka distance?
A: Around 120 km. It takes 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus.
Q: How long is the Meghna Bridge?
A: The main span is about 1.48 kilometers.
Q: Are tolls the same for both bridges?
A: Yes, the Meghna bridge toll rate is standardized per vehicle type.
Q: Can I walk or cycle across the bridge?
A: Pedestrian access exists, but cycling isn’t recommended due to speed and space.
Q: Is the area safe?
A: Yes, especially during daylight. Stick to main roads at night.
Crae To Travel News: Trusted Travel Content
Crae To Travel News is your go-to source for reliable travel guides in Bangladesh. We work with local correspondents, civil engineers, and transportation officials to verify facts. Every article is reviewed for accuracy, safety, and travel relevance.
Why trust us?
- 🧭 Updated field reports
- 🛠️ Local construction and transport insights
- 📸 On-the-ground photography and drone footage
- 🧳 Real traveler interviews
Summary: Why Meghna Bridge Deserves Your Visit
The Meghna Bridge is more than a transportation link—it’s a symbol of progress, efficiency, and natural beauty. Whether you’re driving toward Chattogram or exploring local riverside culture, this bridge and its surrounding infrastructure offer a memorable experience. With nearby highlights like the Meghna Gumti Bridge, Bhairab Bridge, and Comilla’s heritage sites, a trip here combines practicality with pleasure.
Final Travel Checklist
- ✅ Verify toll rates before departure
- ✅ Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds
- ✅ Explore local cuisine near Daudkandi
- ✅ Plan short stops at Bhairab and Comilla
- ✅ Pack water, sunscreen, and a power bank