Bangladesh to build 2.4-billion-dollar bridge

DHAKA: Bangladesh is to build the country's biggest bridge at a cost of 2.4 billion dollars in a bid to spur economic growth in its impoverished southwest, a minister said Monday.

Finance Minister A.M.A Muhith said the government would invite international tenders for the 6.15-kilometre (3.8-mile) road and rail bridge over the river Padma in February.

Construction of what will be the longest bridge in Bangladesh is set to begin in the second half of 2010.