Who ensures the smooth and safe roads in Jessore? That’s the Roads & Highways Department in Jessore — or RHD Jessore. They are the muscle behind Jessore’s main streets, so that you can drive, travel and communicate freely. Let’s break it down.
What Does RHD Do Here?
The government agency that constructs and repairs roads and bridges spanning the length and breadth of Bangladesh is the Roads & Highways Department (RHD). And Jessore? That’s where one of their largest divisions is based. They oversee everything from the major highways connecting Jessore to cities including Dhaka and Khulna, to the local roads that residents use every day.
The Roads They Handle
- N706 – Jessore–Benapole Highway (Jessore Road): Super important, this one. It connects Jessore with the Benapole border crossing between Bangladesh and India. It’s historic as well — used during the 1971 Liberation War, and immortalized by Allen Ginsberg in his poem “September in Jessore Road.”
- N702 – Jessore–Magura Highway: This is about 44 km long and links Jessore to Magura and is important for local communications.
- N707 – City North–South Connector: Small city road with connections to various important places.
RHD also monitors other highways, bridges and minor roads as part of a larger network that keeps Bangladesh moving.
Why This Matters
1. Cross-Border Links
Jessore Road is Bangladesh’s road to India, through the border town of Benapole. It is a lifeline for trade, travel and culture.
2. Historical Significance
It served as an escape route for refugees during the Liberation War of 1971 on their way to India. That’s huge. Plus, it made it into poetry. There have been some stories on that road.
3. Safe, Well-Maintained Travel
RHD not only builds — RHD maintains roads, minimizing travel time, lowering costs and keeping drivers safe.
Busy Bees: What RHD Is Doing Now
They’re always running projects. Tenders In 2024–2025 RHD Jessore issued tenders for the:
- Repairing the Division Office Building
- Installing Roadside Pillars (ROW markers)
- Renovating bungalows & staff quarters
- Installing Solar Panels at RHD’s offices
- Beautifying the offices
- Supplying uniforms, lighting, and materials
- Purchasing of spare parts for big machines like graders and loaders
So yeah, they’re hustling — roads, offices, solar, uniforms — you name it.
Confronting Struggles: Trees, History and a Public Outcry
When they sought to broaden the Jessore to Benapole highway, initially they decided to fell hundreds of aged trees. People said, “Whoa, hold up!” Those trees? They were hundreds of years old, packed with history — they wanted them protected. The Ministry intervened, declaring: “No trees will be felled.” It’s a major victory for respect and green vibes.
But it wasn’t smooth sailing. Scandalous business dealings cropped up — there were stories of trees being sold dirt cheap, and few have been left standing. Lawsuits, environmental protests, public fury — it got messy.
Why you should care about “RHD Jessore”
- Daily Fast, Safe Roads: RHD is your go-to for slick, doused miles behind bars of all kinds.
- Trade & Economy: Jessore is a commercial center. That highway touches India. That’s big bucks and a big chance.
- Heritage on Wheels: The roads aren’t just tarmac, they’re history. To protect them is to respect the past.
- Keeping It Real: When RHD respects local people and preserves the old as well as making the new—that’s how to do it right.
“RHD Jessore” isn’t just a bunch of letters, it’s the motive force behind Jessore’s street life. From infrastructure tying nations together to heritage-lined highways, they are juggling daily upkeep, big-city moves, the public mood and even solar panels. They are, in essence, the unsung heroes behind your smooth ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is RHD Jessore?
A: The local Roads & Highways Department office.
Q2. What does RHD do in Jessore?
A: Builds and maintains roads and bridges.
Q3. Which major road connects Jessore to India?
A: N706 Jessore–Benapole Highway.
Q4. Why is Jessore Road historically important?
A: Used in the 1971 war and in a famous poem.
Q5. How long is the Jessore–Magura Highway (N702)?
A: Around 44 km.
Q6. What is N707 in Jessore?
A: A city connector road.
Q7. Why is RHD Jessore important for trade?
A: Links Bangladesh with India.
Q8. What projects did RHD Jessore take on in 2024–2025?
A: Repairs, solar, and office work.
Q9. What was the controversy about the tree cutting?
A: Plans to cut down historic trees.
Q10. Did the government allow trees to be cut?
A: No, they stopped it.
