The interim government has decided to pause new mega projects and focus on those funded by foreign aid, according to a recent announcement by the Planning Adviser. The implementation of the 8th Five-Year Plan will be suspended, and the initiation of the 9th Five-Year Plan, scheduled to start next year, is deferred until a political government is in place. The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) approved four development projects, including two new and two revised, with a total estimated cost of Tk1,222 crore. The Planning Adviser criticized previous large-scale projects for inadequate planning, citing examples such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project.Â
A significant cost overrun was noted in the Faridpur-Bhanga-Barisal-Patuakhali-Kuakata Highway Upgrade Project, which will be reevaluated. The focus will now be on carefully assessing projects with foreign financing due to the need for international funds