The government has undertaken initiatives to transform Manikganj into a prosperous tourism district, alongside formulating a long-term plan for the management of the Padma and the Jamuna rivers, said Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita.
The minister disclosed the plans while exchanging views with journalists from print and electronic media at the Manikganj Circuit House around 10:30am on Monday.
She said, “My world revolves around Manikganj. The love and sincerity of the people of Manikganj and the cooperation of grassroots leaders and activists are my strength.”
“As a representative of the ruling party, I want to work on behalf of the government and the people of Manikganj. My main goal is to implement the promises and commitments I made to the people during the election campaign.”
She added, “I want to remain steadfast in the commitments I made by going door to door, standing by people and sharing in their joys and sorrows.”
Outlining plans to establish Manikganj as an important tourism centre, the minister said development projects will be undertaken around the district’s heritage sites. In particular, historic landmarks such as Baliati Zamindar Bari and Teota Zamindar Bari will be brought under tourism-friendly infrastructure development.
Ensuring improved services and necessary facilities for domestic and foreign tourists through enhanced security, quality management and modern infrastructure is a key objective of the government, she said.
Alongside this, integrated initiatives will be taken to strengthen river management systems centred on the Padma River and the Jamuna River, while also harnessing river-based tourism potential.
The minister further said steps will be taken to introduce a sustainable and integrated service system to ensure facilities for Hajj pilgrims and expatriates of the district.
Existing problems, irregularities and allegations of corruption in this sector will be addressed through effective measures, in line with the prime minister’s guidance.
The meeting was attended by Manikganj Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana, PP Advocate AFM Nurtaj Alam Bahar, Additional Superintendent of Police Md Moharrar, officials from various government departments, journalists from print and electronic media, and leaders and activists of political parties.
Concluding the event, the minister sought prayers and cooperation from the people of Manikganj, saying collective sincerity and support are essential to develop the district into a modern, prosperous and tourism-rich area.
“I want to uphold the trust of the people and realise the dreams I have for Manikganj,” she said.
