Padma Bridge as a symbol of pride, honour and ability: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday called the Padma Bridge as a "symbol of pride, honour and ability" of Bangladesh as the much-hyped bridge now stands on the mighty Padma river confronting all the conspiracies.

"Ignoring many obstacles and breaking the web of conspiracy, today the much-desired bridge stands on the chest of turbulent Padma River," she said in a gathering of dignitaries marking the grand opening of the Padma Bridge.

Mentioning that the bridge is not just a brick-cement-steel-iron made concrete infrastructure, the prime minister said, "This bridge is a symbol of our pride, our honour and ability."

"Today, I am happy, proud and overwhelmed along with millions of people of the country," she added.

The bridge belongs to the people of Bangladesh and it involves our passion, creativity, courage, endurance and perseverance of all, she said.

"Because, you (countrymen) are by my side, I have the courage to make this impossible possible. And my father, the Father of the Bangalee Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and my mother Begum Fazilatun Nessa have given me courage and blessings from the heaven," she said

The prime minister said the construction of the bridge has been delayed due to the conspiracy, adding, "But we were not disheartened."

On this historic day of the inauguration of the Padma Bridge, she said,"Let us take fresh vow to work for the welfare of the country and the people of the country."

At last, she said that the people of Bangladesh saw the light breaking the darkness.

"Red, blue, green and golden lights are shining in the chest of the Padma," she continued.

The country, which was liberated by my father, can not be deprived anymore, she said.

The premier hoped that the people who opposed the construction of Padma Bridge would be more responsible.