The authorities were able to install only 21 out of 42 required STUs when the flyover was opened to the public on November 4, 2005.

"The flyover is now completely safe from earthquakes and we are happy to complete the installation," said Shabuddin, project director, Mohakhali flyover.

He said the Roads and Highways Department (RHD, the implementing agency of the flyover completed the installation in September, after missing several deadlines.

The 21 newly installed STUs were imported from America, and RHD officials said the delay was due to dispute between the authorities and the contractor.

"We suggested the installation of US-made STUs but the contractors were bent on installing Chinese-made cheaper ones. We stood firm and made no compromises with the quality and thus the delay," said a high official of RHD.

Another reason for the delay was a World Bank condition that said the STUs should be tested in an independent laboratory before they were installed.

The contractors wanted to test these in China to save money but the authorities once again stood firm.

The 21 STUs were finally tested in Chicago before they were installed on the Mohakhali flyover.

Flyover users have expressed satisfaction and are happy with the stance that the authorities have taken to keep the flyover safe for commuting.

"Dhaka has been identified as one of the earthquake vulnerable cities in South Asia, it was a risky decision to inaugurate the flyover for public use without installing the STUs. We are happy that it is finally done," said Abedur Rahman, a regular user of the flyover.