Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives (LGRD) Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for a fundamental change in approach to ensure development projects are implemented efficiently, completed on time, and remain sustainable in the long run.
He made the remarks on Wednesday while speaking at a review meeting on the progress of projects under the Annual Development Programme (ADP) for the 2025–26 fiscal year.
The meeting assessed the status of projects being carried out by the Local Government Division up to February 2026.
State Minister Mir Shahe Alam was present as a special guest.
During the session, officials presented detailed updates on financial allocations, progress of ongoing initiatives, and projects nearing completion. Key challenges and bottlenecks were also discussed.
Based on these presentations, LGRD Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir issued a number of directives aimed at speeding up implementation and improving overall efficiency.
He stressed that projects must be completed within their scheduled timelines, warning against unnecessary delays.
He also urged all stakeholders to demonstrate greater accountability and commitment in executing development work.
Highlighting the need for reform, Mirza Fakhrul called for a shift away from conventional practices, encouraging the adoption of realistic and sustainable planning strategies.
He cautioned officials against taking up superficial or routine projects and instead emphasised the importance of incorporating clear exit strategies, maintenance plans, and long-term sustainability into every Development Project Proposal (DPP).
The minister also underscored the government’s focus on employment generation, urging planners to prioritise projects that create substantial job opportunities.
Additionally, he called for large-scale, coordinated efforts to protect rivers across the country, particularly those surrounding Dhaka.
The meeting was chaired by Local Government Division Secretary Md Shahidul Hassan and attended by senior ministry officials and project directors.