On the occasion of inauguration of the much-awaited Padma Bridge, thousands of people from the south-western part of the country gathered at Banglabazar Launch Ghat in Shibchar upazila of Madaripur district from Saturday morning for public meeting.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) organized a boat race in the Padma River to entertain people there.

The competition began at 11:00 am in the launch ghat area with six well-equipped boats.

The BIWTA sources said there have been much excitement among the people centering the inauguration of the Padma Bridge. The racing competition was mainly to give pleasure to the visitors.

Harun-or-Rashid, owner of a boat from Manikganj, said they are glad for taking part in the competition on the occasion of inauguration of the bridge.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the Padma Multipurpose Bridge this morning. The bridge will be opened for all types of traffic from 6:00 am Sunday.