Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday announced an ambitious plan to modernize road and rail connectivity between Dhaka and Sylhet, aiming to ensure faster, cheaper, and more comfortable travel for the people.
Speaking at a gathering at the Sylhet City Corporation, the Prime Minister recalled his own difficult road journey back to Dhaka during the election campaign, noting that the poor road conditions stretched the trip to nearly 10 hours.
“During the election campaign, I came to Sylhet by plane but I returned by road. The road condition between Sylhet and Dhaka is so poor that the journey can take nearly 10 hours,” he said, explaining that he had promised during the campaign to prioritize this infrastructure if his party formed the government.
The Prime Minister revealed that upon assuming office, he consulted with the concerned ministry and discovered that the project had been stalled by administrative complications and land acquisition issues at 11 specific points, particularly regarding site offices for construction companies.
“However, the ministry concerned has already taken the necessary steps. I hope we will be able to begin the work very soon. It will take some time, but we expect to complete it within the next few years. Once completed, people will no longer have to endure such hardship while travelling by road between Dhaka and Sylhet,” he added.
Beyond road improvements, the Premier emphasized that rail connectivity is a top priority for his administration to reduce travel costs and alleviate pressure on the highways.
“If we improve railways, travel will become cheaper for people and businesses will be able to transport goods at lower cost,” he remarked.
He cautioned that expanding roads alone is not a sustainable solution, as it leads to increased traffic congestion and the loss of fertile agricultural land in a densely populated country.
“We must maintain food self-sufficiency. So while we will improve roads and connectivity, we also want to develop the railways,” he said, confirming that the government is working to introduce a double rail line on the Sylhet-Dhaka route.
“Of course, we will develop roads and improve the transport system, but we also want to develop the railway. I am sure you will be interested in the development of Dhaka–Sylhet rail link or the Sylhet–Dhaka rail system. We are trying to see how a double line can be introduced in Sylhet,” he noted.
Addressing local issues, the Prime Minister spoke extensively on the need to solve waterlogging in Sylhet.
He stressed the importance of cleaning drains and removing plastic waste, urging city corporations to involve schoolchildren in environmental awareness.
“Children learn quickly and carry those habits into adulthood. If we teach them properly, they will also influence their families,” he said.
He expressed high hopes for the newly launched Surma River project at Chandni Ghat, which includes beautification and flood protection.
“I believe that once this project is implemented, Sylhet will be free from waterlogging. It will help protect city dwellers from floods and water congestion,” the Premier stated.
He also voiced concerns over the depletion of groundwater levels, noting that the government’s canal excavation program is designed to create natural water reservoirs.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister asked for patience, noting that his government is only about two and a half months old and comparing its current stage to a young child who cannot yet walk.
Despite this, he highlighted that the government has already begun delivering on election pledges, including Family Cards, Agriculture Cards, Sports Cards, and allowances for Imams and Muazzins.
“Other projects will also be gradually implemented,” he said, expressing his firm belief that through hard work, Bangladesh can reach the level of advanced nations.
The event, chaired by Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury, featured speeches from Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Labour and Expatriates’ Welfare Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury, PM’s Adviser Humaiun Kobir, and Chief Whip G K Gaus.
Other prominent attendees included the Prime Minister's wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, MP Tahsina Rushdir Luna, and newly elected MP Shammi Akhter.
