Chittagong's Divisional Commissioner Md Tofail Islam has warned strict actions  will be taken against anyone spreading rumours about the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, ahead of the tunnel's inauguration next month.

The tunnel built under the Karnaphuli River in the port city is set to be inaugurated on October 28.

"There could be misinformation or propaganda regarding the tunnel. Everyone should be aware of this. Law and order forces will take action against any false or negative campaign," Tofail said during a preparatory meeting at Chittagong Circuit House on Tuesday.

Project Director Harun-ur-Rashid said: "The tunnel is fully ready for vehicular movement. Security details are being looked into. The progress of the entire project is 98.5%. We hope to complete the entire work by December. Even if it is inaugurated in the meantime, there will be no problem in moving the work forward."

AJM Nasir Uddin, general secretary of Chittagong City Awami League and former city mayor, said: "The tunnel project is the first in Bangladesh and South Asia. Various programs will be taken to make the opening ceremony memorable. On the day of the inauguration, a public meeting is scheduled to be held at Anwara-point. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will address the function as the chief guest."

The tunnel will connect the proposed Asian Highway with Dhaka-Chittagong-Cox's Bazar Highway along with reducing the distance by 40km. Vehicles in this tunnel will run at a speed of 80km per hour.

Bangabandhu Tunnel is being built at a cost of Tk10,374 crore. 

The tunnel project is being implemented with joint funding from the governments of Bangladesh and China.

The Exim Bank of China is giving a loan of Tk5,913 crore at 2% interest while the Bangladesh government is funding the remaining portion.