Long-term plan underway to develop basic facilities across country: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said the government is pursuing a long-term plan to gradually ensure basic facilities across all regions of the country, aiming to reduce the pressure on Dhaka through decentralisation.

Responding to supplementary questions in Parliament during the 24th working day of the 13th National Parliament’s first session on Wednesday (April 29), the Prime Minister said job opportunities, healthcare and education have long remained concentrated in the capital, driving continued rural-to-urban migration.

“As part of our long-term planning, our goal is to gradually develop these basic services in all parts of the country,” he said. “We are working to establish special industrial zones, improved healthcare facilities and quality educational institutions in different regions so that people are less compelled to come to Dhaka.”

He said initiatives are underway to expand green coverage in the capital using the Japanese Miyawaki method, focusing on dense urban afforestation in small open spaces.

The Prime Minister noted that the Dhaka North City Corporation aims to plant 5,00,000 trees over the next five years. Trees will also be planted in vacant spaces beneath metro rail and elevated expressways.

He said the government has prioritised controlling environmental pollution in Dhaka to transform it into a cleaner and greener city.

Tarique Rahman also pointed out that urban expansion has led to rail lines entering city areas and development occurring alongside bypass roads, requiring careful consideration of land use and investment decisions.

He added that the issue is not limited to Mymensingh but applies broadly to urban centres nationwide, urging members of parliament to submit written queries for detailed responses on specific matters.