PM urges high alert to foil plot against Padma Bridge opening

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday asked the security forces to be on alert saying that a quarter is targeting to thwart the much-awaited inauguration of Padma Bridge on 25 June, UNB reports.

“We’ve completed the work (construction of the Padma Bridge) overcoming a big challenge. Those who opposed it have a target now. We’ve got some information as well (in this regard). They will create such a situation that we won’t be able to hold the inaugural ceremony on 25 June”, the PM Sheikh Hasina said.

The prime minister was addressing a programme marking the 36th founding anniversary of the Special Security Force (SSF) at her office here.

She said when the World Bank stopped the funding to the Padma Bridge due to instigation from Dr Muhammad Yunus and his friend Hillary Clinton, her government announced that it would construct the bridge with own funding.

“At that time, many people thought that we would not be able to make it. But we’ve done it,” said PM Hasina.

She asked the security forces particularly the law enforcement agencies to be careful and ensure security to import structures of the country ahead of the opening of the country’s largest multipurpose road-rail bridge.

She said the fire incidents have already been seen on train, launch and ferry in recent times.

Suspecting foul play in the recent fire at BM Container Depot she wondered how the blaze could occur in several sites and not at a single place.

Noting that she saw a video footage of the train fire on Saturday, she said the fire started from the wheel. “How could it be possible? So, all these things are mysterious,” she said.

“So, I would like to ask all to remain alert, pay attention to our important establishments and ensure security to these,” said the PM.