The government is taking a strict stance to end the long-standing pattern of time and fund wastage caused by repeated extensions of development projects.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed that the causes of delays in projects not completed within the stipulated time without valid reasons be investigated, and that punitive measures be taken against those responsible.
A committee has been formed to examine the underlying causes of delayed projects.
According to Planning Commission sources, the decision was recently taken at a meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC).
Several officials present at the meeting told TIMES of Bangladesh that the prime minister said valid reasons for delays would be considered, but if no proper justification exists, punitive action will be taken against the parties concerned.
Tarique has instructed that each ministry review its projects and submit detailed investigation reports, which will form the basis for subsequent decisions.
An official said, “The prime minister has said that all ADP projects must be implemented within the current government’s five-year term. In taking on new projects, the government’s priorities and public welfare must be given utmost importance. At the same time, less important or long-standing projects should be set aside in favour of more productive, public-benefit-oriented projects.”
Planning Secretary SM Shakil Akhtar told TIMES, “Following the prime minister’s directive, a committee has been formed to verify projects. The cabinet secretary will lead this committee, and the Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division (IMED) will provide comprehensive support with all necessary data and project information.”
Former IMED secretary Pradip Ranjan Chakraborty praised the move, saying, “When a project is approved, a specific timeline is set. If work is not completed within that period, there must be valid reasons. If not, holding officials accountable is natural.”
He added that project approvals involve multiple levels of review, including the ministry, the project verification committee, the Planning Commission, and Ecnec. Still, if projects are not implemented on time, responsibility must be assigned.
Regarding repeated extensions of project timelines, he noted, “Administrative changes, frequent staff transfers, training, or other factors often slow project implementation. Weak monitoring systems can also contribute.”
He added that if ADP review meetings coordinated by IMED, the Planning Commission, the Finance Division, and relevant ministries had been more effective, many project delays could have been identified and resolved earlier.
Chakraborty fully endorsed the government’s decision to reassess projects with very low implementation progress.
