Bangladesh's communication minister Syed Abul Hossain said yesterday that consultants are due to be appointed this month to finalise design work on the Padma Bridge.

The construction tender will then follow. Construction is expected to begin in 2011, with a target to complete the bridge in three years.

The 5.58km bridge over the River Padma will connect the south west of the country with its capital Dhaka. It is expected to cost US$1.5 billion.

Bangladesk is negotiating with international banks to secure financial assistance for the project.