ECNEC approves 12 development projects worth Tk 8,149.38 crore

ECNEC Approves 12 Projects Worth Tk 8,149.38cr, Including Major Upgrade for Dhaka University

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Sunday approved 12 development projects with a total estimated cost of Tk 8,149.38 crore, including a significant Tk 2,840.39 crore initiative for the further development of the University of Dhaka.

The approvals came during the 12th ECNEC meeting under the interim government and the first for fiscal year 2025–26 (FY26), held at the NEC Conference Room in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka. ECNEC Chairperson and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus presided over the session.

Following the meeting, Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud briefed reporters on the decisions.

Of the total project cost, Tk 8,058.77 crore will be provided by the government, Tk 143.33 crore will come from development partners, and Tk 52.72 crore will be financed from the own funds of implementing agencies.

Among the 12 approved projects, six are new, four are revised, and two involve time extensions without cost revisions.

A standout project is the comprehensive development of the University of Dhaka. Dr Mahmud noted that following the recent political transition, the new university administration was advised to prepare a long-term master plan for development. This project reflects that vision, including the construction and renovation of academic buildings, student dormitories, residential quarters for faculty and staff, a stadium, and a swimming pool.

He added that ECNEC has instructed authorities to ensure increased residential capacity for female students and preserve key historical landmarks such as SM Hall and Curzon Hall.

“I’m truly pleased to see this project get the green light,” said Dr Mahmud. “I hope its implementation will significantly enhance the infrastructure and academic environment of Dhaka University.”

He also noted that multi-storey buildings will be prioritized to optimize land use. The project includes six new academic buildings, four female dormitories, five male dormitories, two residential buildings for teachers and staff, and five other utility buildings.

Citing a report from the Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division (IMED), the Planning Adviser called for a detailed review of past project management practices. He said authorities are seeking clarity on issues such as contractors abandoning works after regime change, full payments made before project completion, and the extent of losses incurred.

Regarding the much-criticized Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project from Gazipur to the airport, Dr Mahmud described it as an "unplanned mega project." He proposed forming a committee comprising ministry and sector experts to investigate the project's origins, feasibility studies, and decision-making process. There is also a suggestion to convert BRT lanes into rapid toll lanes to better utilize existing infrastructure.

A proposal to build residential flats for the families of July uprising martyrs was withdrawn from the agenda and will be reassessed before reconsideration.

Other projects approved include:

• Establishment of 20 Fire Service and Civil Defence Stations (12 new, 8 reconstructed) – Tk 650.96 crore

• Development of Logistics and Fleet Maintenance for Bangladesh Coast Guard (2nd Revised) – Tk 173.21 crore

• Rural Sanitation Project – Tk 1,989.82 crore

• Excavation of Bahaddarhat Baroipara to Karnaphuli River Canal (3rd Revised) – reduced cost of Tk 19.40 crore

• Maintenance and Rehabilitation of Railway Lines in the Eastern Region – Tk 1,791.66 crore

• Construction of Officers' Mess and BOQ at Mirpur Cantonment (1st Revised) – Tk 75.45 crore

• Road Construction Along the Karnaphuli River from Kalurghat Bridge to Chaktai Canal (2nd Revised) – Tk 469.15 crore

• Women’s Income Generating Activities (Phase 2) – Tk 395.83 crore

• Expansion and Infrastructure Development of Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation (1st Revised) – Tk 12.89 crore

• Strengthening Research on Tuber Crops – Tk 100 crore

• Smart Pre-Payment Metering Project for BPDB Distribution Zones (1st Revised) – Tk 151.43 crore

Additionally, the ECNEC meeting was informed of 18 projects previously approved by the Planning Adviser, and approved title changes for two ongoing projects.

Advisers, members of the Planning Commission, and relevant secretaries were also present at the meeting.