Dhaka: State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam today announced that the government has initiated field-level execution of its election manifesto, with a firm commitment to achieve all outlined promises within the next four years. “Several important welfare-oriented initiatives outlined in the manifesto had already been launched successfully within the first three months of the current government,” he stated during a citizen dialogue at the Senate Building of Dhaka University.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the discussion, titled “People’s Mandate: Citizen Dialogue on Manifesto to Action,” was organized by APE, Sachetan Foundation, BRAC C3ER, and additional environmental organizations. In the second session, participants deliberated on “Challenges and Prospects of Manifesto Implementation: Urban Development and Climate Resilience.”
The state minister highlighted the government’s introduction of the Family Card programme as a key election commitment, noting the ongoing distribution of these cards at the grassroots level to economically empower women. He further mentioned the intensified excavation of canals across the country aimed at bolstering the rural economy.
Emphasizing the need for enhanced civic services, the state minister called for increased capacity and authority of local government institutions, advocating for a shift from conventional systems to modern city governance that aligns with current demands. He also addressed environmental concerns, stating that the government plans to mandate septic tanks for every household to protect rivers, canals, and wetlands from pollution, and discussions with RAJUK on this matter have reached an advanced stage.
Furthermore, the state minister revealed that bilateral talks with China are underway to advance waste management in the capital using a scientific approach, signaling ongoing efforts to improve urban infrastructure and sustainability.