Historic railway bridge still carries trains, preserves memories of 1971
M Rowshan Alam, Sirajganj : More than a century after it was built, the Ghatina Railway Bridge still stands over the Phuljor River in Ullapara, carrying trains while silently bearing witness to some of the most turbulent chapters of the region’s history.
The 1,250-metre-long, 10-metre-wide bridge is not merely an engineering landmark. It is also associated with one of the early resistance battles against Pakistani forces during the Liberation War in 1971.
When the war broke out, the strategically important bridge became a battleground as freedom fighters took on Pakistani troops in an attempt to defend the vital railway link.
The fighting turned Ghatina into an important site in Sirajganj’s Liberation War history. A memorial has since been erected beside the bridge to preserve the memory of those who fought and sacrificed their lives for the country.
Built between 1909 and 1914 during British colonial rule, the bridge was constructed with steel and bricks as part of the expansion of the railway network across the subcontinent. It was designed by British engineer Sir Robert William Gales and inaugurated in 1914, according to local historical accounts.
More than 110 years later, the bridge remains operational, a testament to the durability of its original construction and the engineering skills of its builders.
The bridge has undergone regular repair and maintenance to keep it safe for railway operations. Its continued use has also ensured that the century-old structure remains an integral part of the region’s transport network.
Beyond its historical and engineering significance, Ghatina has emerged as a popular destination for visitors. The Phuljor River, surrounding greenery and imposing steel structure create a scenic setting that attracts both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Visitors come to explore the old railway bridge, learn about its connection with the Liberation War and enjoy the quiet riverside landscape.
For locals, however, Ghatina represents something deeper.
It is a tangible link between the present and a past marked by colonial rule, the expansion of railways and the struggle for Bangladesh’s independence.
As trains continue to cross the bridge more than a century after its construction, Ghatina remains a rare example of a historic structure that is both a functioning piece of infrastructure and a living monument to the country’s past.
Local residents and history enthusiasts believe greater attention should be given to preserving the bridge and its surroundings so that future generations can learn about its historical significance while enjoying its natural beauty.
