Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin has called for all aviation and tourism projects to be completed on schedule and within their approved budgets. Speaking on 20 July at a review meeting for the Annual Development Programme of fiscal year 2024–25, he expressed concern over delays and overspending. He said timely, cost-conscious execution will ensure that infrastructure delivers long-term benefits to people and communities. Bashir stressed that projects must be sustainable, effective, and aligned with agreed quality standards. He urged participants to focus on preventing delays, managing resources wisely, and staying on budget so that public investments translate into visible improvements. He warned that incomplete or poorly funded initiatives waste taxpayer money and create frustration among citizens. Participants included top officials such as Civil Aviation Secretary, representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, and leaders from the Bangladesh Tourism Board. They examined current projects including enhancements to airports, construction of new terminal facilities, updates to runways, and development of tourism-related infrastructure. Challenges discussed included coordination gaps, permit delays, and procurement issues. Attendees agreed that stronger teamwork and decisive actions are needed to accelerate implementation. One key project under review is the modernization of regional airports. Work on runway resurfacing, new navigation systems, and expanded passenger facilities has progressed unevenly. Bashir advised more frequent site visits, tighter oversight, and clearer milestones to ensure these upgrades stay on track. He also directed that potential bottlenecks—like staffing shortages and contractor delays—must be flagged early and resolved quickly. On the tourism side, Bashir reviewed efforts to develop visitor infrastructure at popular destinations. That includes investments in visitor centers, access roads, signboards, and safety features. He emphasized that launching these tourism projects before the high season could boost local economies by attracting more visitors and creating jobs in hospitality and services. Bashir also underlined the importance of sustainability and community impact. He said that projects should include environmental safeguards, use local materials when feasible, and involve nearby residents in planning and execution. This will help communities take ownership of new facilities and ensure long-term upkeep. To strengthen accountability, he asked for monthly reports on project progress, budget use, and risk factors. The advisors plan to meet again next quarter to review performance and adjust plans as needed. Officials expressed confidence that these steps will help bring stalled projects to completion and ensure that new ones begin on a solid foundation. By insisting on on-time, on-budget completion, Bashir aims to make sure that the country’s aviation and tourism sectors grow sustainably and deliver real benefits to the people. With stronger coordination, effective monitoring, and a focus on quality outcomes, these sectors are set to support broader economic growth and improve connectivity across Bangladesh.
