The government’s plan to strengthen road and rail connectivity along the Dhaka-Sylhet route is certainly a welcome move. Better transport links boost trade, tourism, and regional integration, while easing the burden on citizens who rely on these routes daily.
Infrastructure, when done right, is a driver of growth and opportunity. Bangladesh too has unquestionably developed as a result of the numerous infrastructure projects that have been undertaken over the years.
With that said, Bangladesh’s history with mega projects also demands caution. Too often, projects have been launched with fanfare only to become mired in delays, cost overruns, or questionable utility.
The result has been billions spent without equitable returns, leaving the nation shoulder debts while promised benefits remained elusive.
Moving forward, this must be different. Infrastructure development must be guided by rigorous feasibility studies, transparent cost assessments, and clear projections of long‑term value.
Every taka spent must be justified not by political symbolism but by tangible benefits to the people. Roads and railways and indeed any other projects therefore must serve communities, not vanity.
The Dhaka-Sylhet initiatives are indeed promising and even necessary, but the success of what is built on this route will depend on discipline. Costs therefore must be contained with independent oversight guiding efficient implementation.
Above all, the government must resist the temptation to pursue projects for prestige rather than practicality. We cannot afford another cycle of grand announcements followed by disappointing outcomes.
Infrastructure is too important to be treated as spectacle. Done properly, they are models of value‑driven development. Done poorly, they add to the tally of cautionary tales.
We need infrastructure that delivers, not just in the short term, but for generations to come.