For years, allegations of irregularities, delays and administrative inefficiency have followed some of Chattogram’s most important public institutions — the Chittagong Development Authority (CDA), Chattogram Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (CWASA) and Chattogram Port Authority.
Now, with new leadership in place, these agencies are facing renewed pressure from the government to clean up their systems, improve transparency and take action against officials accused of misconduct.
The government has reportedly instructed the newly appointed heads of these institutions to implement a strict anti-corruption policy and ensure greater accountability in service delivery.
The move comes as public frustration continues over issues ranging from disputed building approvals and urban planning failures to water supply problems and complaints from businesses over port-related services.
At CDA, allegations surrounding building plan approvals, unauthorised construction regularisation and delays in processing applications have persisted for years.
The authority is also overseeing major urban development projects worth thousands of crores, increasing scrutiny over transparency and implementation. Newly appointed CDA Chairman Engineer Belayet Hossain said the authority would take a tougher stance against irregularities.
“We will take strong action against illegal occupation and unauthorised construction. Any official found involved in irregularities will face immediate disciplinary measures,” he said. CWASA, meanwhile, faces pressure over long-standing concerns about water supply disruptions, system losses and project management.
Residents in different parts of the city have repeatedly complained about unreliable services, while officials point to infrastructure challenges. CWASA Managing Director Engineer Jane Alam Selim said steps were being taken to reduce system losses and improve management. “We are working to significantly reduce system losses, and the benefits will be visible soon,” he said.
The Chattogram Port Authority, the country’s main maritime gateway, has also moved to tighten internal controls. Officials have been warned against unauthorised financial transactions, harassment of service users and violations of existing rules.
“There is no scope for corruption under the existing rules. This letter is a reminder to all officials and employees to strictly comply with regulations,” said Member (Administration and Planning) Mohammad Samimuzzaman.
Experts and stakeholders say the challenge will not be issuing directives but ensuring enforcement. Previous reform initiatives at public institutions have often struggled due to weak monitoring and lack of accountability.
For citizens and businesses, the real test will be whether the new measures lead to faster services, fewer bureaucratic obstacles and greater transparency.
As Chattogram’s key civic institutions enter this new phase, the question remains: will the crackdown bring lasting reform, or become another announcement without lasting change.
