Sylhet, Nov 03 (V7N) — Residents of Sylhet have called for the rapid implementation of long-delayed development projects and the end of what they describe as long-standing discrimination in government allocations. As part of the movement, a sit-in demonstration was held on Sunday from City Point to Surma Market Point in Sylhet city, demanding equal development opportunities for the region.

The demonstration was organized by “Sylhet Andolon,” a civic platform formed to press for the region’s rightful development demands. Former Sylhet City Corporation mayor Ariful Haque Chowdhury led the program and addressed the gathering, alleging that while projects in other districts receive approval and funding, those for Sylhet remain neglected or withdrawn.

“Dhaka received Tk 2,400 crore, Khulna Tk 2,400 crore, Chattogram Tk 3,100 crore, and Barishal Tk 2,400 crore, while Sylhet got only Tk 19 crore, which was later taken back,” said Ariful Haque. “We want to know who is behind this anti-Sylhet bias. Under the current interim government, the people of Sylhet must not be subjected to such discrimination.”

He further claimed that a special tourist train for Sylhet was promised but later canceled, and proposed projects such as dual-gauge upgrades, new train services on the Sylhet–Dhaka and Sylhet–Cox’s Bazar routes, and a WASA water project were all either halted or postponed without explanation. “The water treatment plant project must be implemented,” he demanded.

The sit-in, held under the presidency of Dargah Mosque Imam and Khatib Hafez Maulana Asjad Ahmad, was attended by political leaders, professionals, business figures, teachers, journalists, and representatives from religious and labor organizations. Participants emphasized that Sylhet has long suffered from development inequality and gave an ultimatum for the government to fulfill their demands promptly.

During the event, Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md. Sarwar Alam visited the gathering, where Ariful Haque Chowdhury handed him a written copy of the demands. The deputy commissioner assured protesters that the government is working to accelerate all ongoing projects.

He said, “Land acquisition for the Dhaka–Sylhet highway is progressing quickly, and work is being closely monitored. Measures to resolve the water crisis are underway, and new legislation on airline ticket pricing will be introduced within weeks. Another flight to Sylhet is expected to start by December, and road development tenders have been floated for early implementation.”

The deputy commissioner also stated that the government’s focus is on sustainable development and environmental protection, adding that a master plan for Sylhet’s tourism industry is being advanced. “Once implemented, it will greatly benefit the people of Sylhet,” he affirmed.

END/RIM/SMA/