Delays in six major transport infrastructure projects have resulted in estimated losses of Tk1.12 lakh crore, equivalent to the cost of building four Padma Bridges, according to project documents. The delays, which range from four to 12 years, stem from inefficiencies, financing issues, protracted land acquisition, feasibility study shortcomings, and design flaws.
The economic loss extends beyond the cost hikes of the projects, impacting citizens and the country’s development. The Padma Bridge, Khulna-Mongla rail line, Karnaphuli tunnel, Dhaka Bus Rapid Transit, Dhaka-Tongi-Joydebpur railway expansion, and Dohazari-Cox’s Bazar rail line are the projects analyzed. Delays result in lost opportunities, slower employment and GDP growth, and decreased business costs, among other economic impacts.