Dhaka:The government has announced its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the procurement of 35 new aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines. This initiative aims to modernize the airline's fleet and prevent future capacity shortages, according to Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks during the second meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on his ministry. The committee discussed the ministry's major activities, including aircraft procurement plans, development projects, and measures to enhance transparency and accountability.
The meeting, chaired by committee chairman Abul Kalam Azad Siddiqui, highlighted the urgency of fleet expansion. Minister Millat emphasized that the newly ordered aircraft might take up to 10 years to enter service, while several existing aircraft are expected to be grounded in the coming years. He noted that timely procurement is crucial for maintaining operational continuity and avoiding a future shortage of aircraft.
The minister clarified that the government would not directly finance the acquisition of the 35 aircraft. Instead, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will gradually repay the procurement costs from its earnings, with the government acting only as a guarantor. Millat also explained that the government has initiated effective strategies to modernize the national flag carrier to meet future operational needs.
Committee members stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in all procurement processes and development projects. Millat acknowledged the historical lack of sustained accountability, which led to improperly planned projects over the past two decades. He reaffirmed the current government's commitment to maintaining 100% transparency in all procurement activities.
The minister also highlighted the necessity of parliamentary oversight to ensure good governance, transparency, and accountability within the ministry. He mentioned that unnecessary purchases from previous administrations would be investigated thoroughly.
In discussing future plans, Minister Millat referred to the development of an international airport in Bogura, which would require around 2,000 acres of land. The proposed facility would include a runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft as part of the ministry's broader aviation infrastructure plans.
Millat urged the standing committee members to actively ensure that the ministry's activities are conducted transparently and efficiently. Senior officials from the ministry and its subordinate departments and agencies were present at the meeting.