Cabinet approves formation of Bogura Development Authority

The cabinet has given final approval to the draft of the law regarding the formation of a development authority in Bogura. The approval was given at a cabinet meeting held at the Secretariat on Thursday (July 23).

A press release from the Cabinet Division confirmed the matter.

It said the draft of the 'Bogura Development Authority Act, 2026' was presented at the cabinet meeting with the aim of establishing a planned modern city in Bogura and its surrounding areas, maintaining the geo-physical and environmental balance of the region, preventing unplanned urbanisation, ensuring disaster-resilient urban management, developing information technology and tourism industries, and ensuring improved civic life.

The release further stated that the law will establish a statutory body named 'Bogura Development Authority (BDA)' comprising a chairman, full-time members and representatives from various organisations, covering Bogura City Corporation and adjacent areas. The authority will determine a phased planning framework, from master plans to development projects and local plans, through statutory processes including public hearings and pre-publication.

No construction or project can be undertaken without the authority's clearance. The law includes strict environmental regulations for protecting rivers, canals, water bodies, playgrounds and open spaces; introduction of modern land management techniques such as land reorganisation and land redevelopment; provisions for imprisonment and fines for various offences including unauthorised construction and filling up water reservoirs; as well as provisions for its own fund, development fees, borrowing and auditing.

The press release also stated that the draft of the 'Bogura Development Authority Act, 2026' has been given final approval, subject to vetting by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division.