The bridge will cost Tk 223 crore including a foreign exchange component of Tk 175 crore.

Soil test, site selection and other preliminary engineering work have already been completed at the project site, one-kilometer up-stream from the Dapdapia ferry terminal, official sources said here yesterday.

The 1,390-meter long and 10-meter wide bridge will be constructed with an excellent 'Y' shaped architectural design.

Another 270-meter long and 10-meter wide approach bridge will also be constructed over Khairabad canal. The bridges will connect Patuakhali and Bhola districts through road.

The work will be completed within 48 months.