Project approval spree continues

The government yesterday approved 28 projects involving Tk 30,234 crore.

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) approved the projects at a meeting the day before the Election Commission announces the polls schedule today.

On Sunday, the government approved 39 other development projects involving Tk 86,687 crore, the second biggest allocation for development projects in a single Ecnec meeting under the present government.

In December 2016, Ecnec approved the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, the country's biggest ever project in terms of costs, requiring an estimated Tk 1,13,092.91 crore.

Between July and September, 75 projects, involving Tk 56,819 crore, have been Okayed.

At least 82 projects, involving Tk 88,782 crore, have been approved in October.

Two Ecnec meetings in the last seven days had approved 67 projects involving Tk 1,16,921 crore.

Planning minister AHM Mustafa Kamal said, “Many of you may ask whether the projects are politically motivated. But you know we work for the people….”

These projects will contribute to reducing poverty and cutting unemployment, he said.

One of the 28 projects approved yesterday is of purchasing vehicles for Rab and constructing flats government officials in Chattogram.

Seven projects for law enforcers and government employees were approved in the previous Ecenec meeting as well.

The project for Rab involves Tk 1,034 crore. Ecnec also approved building 1,248 flats in Chattogram for government employees at a cost of Tk 1,131 crore.

A project was also approved for setting up Sheikh Hasina University at Netrokona for Tk 2,637 crore. The construction of the University is expected to complete by 2021. 

Another project approved was for expanding the Sylhet Osmany International Airport at a cost of Tk 2,309.79 crore.

A project for developing a sewerage system in Chattogram city at a cost of Tk 3,808 crore was also approved.