Dhaka, Oct. 24 -- Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the 1.5 km long four-lane bridge on Sunday after nine years of construction with the government hoping the bridge will cut the travellers' sufferings and save time and money.

Project Director Abdul Halim said the areas surrounding the bridge are in a festive mood. "Everyone is looking forward to the inauguration by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina."

After the Payra Bridge opens to the public, people can travel up to Kuakata from Barishal without having to ride a ferry.

In many other districts of the vast southern region, including Barishal, a direct road link to Dhaka will remain a dream, until the Padma Bridge comes on stream.

Halim said the construction of the bridge and the...