Bangladesh, with its dense population and vast land area, relies on a well-connected road network to link its people, regions, and economy. Among the various types of roads in the country, the national highways stand out as the lifelines of transportation, carrying the majority of traffic and connecting major cities, districts, and economic zones. Designated by a number preceded by “N,” these national highways are maintained by the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) under the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges.
Currently, Bangladesh boasts eight national highways. Serving as the main arteries of the country’s transportation system, these highways facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services. Let’s take a closer look at some of these key national highways:
N1: Extending over 388 kilometers, the N1 highway is the longest and most significant in Bangladesh. It links the capital city of Dhaka with the bustling port city of Chittagong and the picturesque tourist destination of Cox’s Bazar. The N1 highway also reaches the border town of Teknaf, marking the southernmost point of mainland Asia. Passing through districts like Narayanganj, Comilla, Feni, and Chittagong, this highway forms an integral part of the Asian Highway Network (AH1 and AH41) and the Trans-Asian Railway Network. Additionally, the N1 highway includes several bypasses (N101, N102, N103, N104, N105, N106, N107, N108, N109, and N110) that offer alternative routes to avoid congestion and access different destinations.
N2: Connecting Dhaka to the agricultural and industrial-rich northwestern region, the N2 highway spans 370 kilometers. It traverses districts like Gazipur, Tangail, Sirajganj, Bogra, and Rangpur. As part of the Asian Highway Network (AH2) and the Trans-Asian Railway Network, the N2 highway facilitates connectivity between Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Bypasses such as N204, N205, N206, N207, N208, and N209 further provide alternative routes for smoother travel and access to various destinations.
N3: Stretching over 283 kilometers, the N3 highway connects Dhaka to the scenic and resource-rich northeastern region. Passing through districts such as Narsingdi, Brahmanbaria, Habiganj, and Sylhet, the N3 highway serves as an important link between Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. Like the N1 and N2 highways, the N3 highway is part of the Asian Highway Network (AH1 and AH2) and the Trans-Asian Railway Network. It also offers bypasses (N301, N302, and N309) to ensure efficient traffic flow and accessibility.
N4: The N4 highway plays a vital role in connecting Dhaka to the southwestern region, which is home to the world-renowned Sundarbans mangrove forest. Stretching over 333 kilometers, this highway passes through districts like Faridpur, Magura, Jessore, and Khulna. It is an essential component of the Asian Highway Network (AH41) and facilitates connectivity with neighboring India. Bypasses including N401, N403, N404, and N405 provide alternative routes to avoid congestion or reach specific destinations.
N5: Linking Dhaka to the resource-rich southeastern region, the N5 highway covers approximately 270 kilometers. It passes through districts like Munshiganj, Chandpur, Noakhali, and Lakshmipur. As part of the Asian Highway Network (AH41), the N5 highway ensures connectivity between Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. Numerous bypasses (N501, N502, N503, N504, N505, N506, N507, N508, N509, N510, N511, N513, N514, N515, N516, N517, and N518) offer alternative routes for smoother travel and access to different destinations.
N6: The Path to Cultural Splendor
Spanning 215 kilometers, the N6 highway weaves its way from the bustling capital of Dhaka to the cultural heartland of Bangladesh. This route connects travelers to the glorious heritage and historical treasures that lie hidden in the central region. As you traverse districts like Manikganj, Rajbari, Kushtia, Meherpur, and Chuadanga, you will encounter majestic palaces, ancient temples, and remnants of bygone eras. Allow the N6 highway to guide you on a captivating journey through Bangladesh’s cultural tapestry.
N7: Exploring Northern Frontiers
Stretching across 409 kilometers, the N7 highway beckons adventurers to explore the untamed beauty of Bangladesh’s northern region. As you depart from Dhaka, this road will lead you through districts like Mymensingh, Jamalpur, Sherpur, Netrokona, and Sunamganj. Prepare to be awe-struck by the region’s majestic mountains, gushing rivers, and verdant forests. With every twist and turn, the N7 highway reveals breathtaking vistas and invites you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders that await at every destination.
N8: The Coastal Gateway
Embark on a mesmerizing 500-kilometer journey down the N8 highway, connecting Dhaka to the enchanting southern coastal region of Bangladesh. As you venture through districts like Barisal, Patuakhali, Barguna, Pirojpur, and Jhalokati, a world of wonders unfolds before your eyes. Picture yourself strolling along pristine sandy beaches, listening to the rhythm of the waves, and losing yourself in the serene beauty of the world’s largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans. The N8 highway serves as your gateway to a coastal paradise like no other.
These national highways play a pivotal role in facilitating transportation, trade, and economic development in Bangladesh. By effectively connecting Dhaka to major ports, tourist destinations, agricultural regions, and natural resources, these highways enable the smooth movement of goods, services, and people across the country. Continued expansion and improvement of these highways will undoubtedly contribute to further economic growth, enhanced regional integration, and an improved quality of life for the people of Bangladesh.