Dhaka, June 13 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday announced plans to upgrade the Chattogram-Cox's Bazar highway into a four-to-six-lane corridor, describing it as a vital route for the economic development of the region.

Making the announcement while addressing a public rally at the Chakaria Bus Terminal in Cox's Bazar, the Prime Minister said the road had remained largely unchanged for decades despite its growing importance, UNB reports.

"On the way from the airport, I asked Salahuddin Ahmed where this straight road leads to. He told me that it goes all the way to Chattogram. I then told him that the road looks almost the same as it did 25 years ago when I last saw it," he said.

Tarique Rahman said he believes the highway is...