Dhaka:The government is set to implement an artificial intelligence-based system to review development project expenses in relation to the official rate schedule, aiming to enhance procurement price assessments and enforce accountability in public spending.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, State Minister for Planning Md. Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki announced that a new rate schedule is under consideration, alongside the development of a software-based mechanism to verify project expenditures against the prescribed rates. This initiative utilizes technology and artificial intelligence to ensure compliance with the new rate schedule.
The government plans to include specialists in Project Steering Committee meetings for projects that involve procuring goods or equipment outside the official rate schedule. This move is intended to enable experts to evaluate market prices and technical specifications before procurement expenditures are approved. Additionally, the Prime Minister has sanctioned hiring price assessment companies for major development projects to ascertain whether estimated costs align with current market conditions.
The Planning Ministry has distributed instructions to all ministries, outlining 13 specific requirements from the Prime Minister's directives, which must be incorporated into Development Project Proposals. These requirements include provisions for renewable energy, environmental measures, facilities for disabled persons, and clearer investment return assessments.
Energy exploration has been prioritized, with the government initiating several drilling projects to boost domestic gas production. The ECNEC has approved a project to drill wells at the Titas Gas Field, and the government is exploring the extraction of small, untapped gas reserves.
Amid global and domestic economic pressures, the government has adopted an expansionary economic approach, increasing the Annual Development Programme to sustain development activities. Efforts are underway to enhance domestic revenue through improved tax administration.
Rural infrastructure development is also a priority, with projects approved for constructing small bridges and culverts to improve connectivity. The government is revising ongoing projects to ensure the completion of essential development activities, aiming to accelerate implementation while maintaining transparency and accountability.