We applaud the government’s move to fast track certain high priority infrastructure projects.
The move is a boost for much-awaited developments including the Dhaka Metro Rail project , Padma Multipurpose Bridge, and the Sonadia Deep Seaport in Cox’s Bazar among others.
Bangladesh’s economy will benefit greatly from successful implementation of the port and metro projects so the government’s decision to speed up work is welcome.
It is essential though to ensure full accountability and transparency for public expenditure on these projects. In the light of past controversies, the government must not only make clear that corruption is unacceptable, but it must build in transparency to ensure that funds are effectively spent.
Reports that the Budget Management Act has been violated by the diversion of capital funds for the Padma Bridge project in order to pay promised benefits to public servants, are a good illustration of the need to ensure that all projects are subject to public scrutiny.
Funders, whether public, private or overseas need assurance that funds are spent properly and effectively. The public requires transparency and accountability to ensure that promises of infrastructure development are properly met in a timely and cost effective manner.
The government should show clarity, substance and transparency as it moves forward with its promises for these major infrastructure projects.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
