The government of Bangladesh has unveiled plans for a significant boost in public investments across crucial sectors like roadways, railways, bridges, shipping, civil aviation, and telecommunications.
These strategic initiatives aim to propel Bangladesh towards becoming an upper middle-income country by 2031 and a developed smart nation by 2041.
As per the 'Medium Term Macroeconomic Policy Statement (2023-24 to 2025-26)', the government intends to allocate Tk 963.9 billion in the fiscal year 2024-25, with an increase to Tk 1060.3 billion in 2025-26.
This planned escalation follows an investment of Tk 876.3 billion in the current fiscal year, signaling a substantial uptick in funding for various development programs.
The policy document underscores the pivotal role of an integrated and cost-effective transport and communication system in fostering economic growth, facilitating trade, and ensuring social cohesion.
Efforts are underway in the Road Transport and Highways Division to establish a robust and sustainable road transport system, including the construction of multi-lane highways, elevated expressways, and new bridges.
In Dhaka, initiatives to alleviate traffic congestion include advancing metro rail lines, which are expected to greatly enhance urban mobility.
The railway sector is also undergoing transformation under a 30-year master plan aimed at modernizing and expanding the railway network nationwide.
Ambitious plans for the water transport system are outlined, emphasizing its significance in the integrated multimodal transport framework.
The Ministry of Shipping is implementing extensive programs to enhance inland waterways, seaports, and land ports, including dredging efforts to maintain river navigability.
In response to increasing air travel demand, projects are underway to expand passenger handling capacities and improve airport facilities, with the goal of positioning Bangladesh as a regional hub for international passenger transport.
These comprehensive plans not only seek to modernize Bangladesh's infrastructure but also serve as a foundation for its ambitious economic development objectives.
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