The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) has extended a grant worth $48m to Bangladesh for construction of a bridge on the Paira River.

The bridge will link the southern region with the capital Dhaka allowing hassle free communication to tourist spot Kuakata.

The proposed four lane bridge will be 1.4km long and will ease congestion on Barisal-Patuakhali highway.

The project will cost $60.87m, out of which $57.9m will come in project aid with the remaining funds provided by the government of Bangladesh.