Decentralisation -a must
Photo: LITON RAHMAN / DRIKNEWS
By decentralising Dhaka metropolis, at least two major problems of the nation would be solved: a) administrative powers to the UZ and UC; and b) reduce congestion. But the MPs are not interested to initiate the move in the JS, and wish to maintain their monopoly at the district, upazila and union council levels. The divisional and district headquarters are not attractive to the investors and entrepreneurs; who all rush to the greater Dhaka Zone. The policy should be- discourage temporary trips to Dhaka for business or official contacts; and not make Dhaka the base for all kinds of activities. President Ershad proposed turning the divisions into provinces, but the idea was rejected by the Prime Minister. Small Bangladesh has the highest density of population in the world (around 1,000 persons per sq km): and it is difficult to rule from Dhaka, (the majority live in the rural areas, and agriculture is a key factor in development; while a large percentage is illiterate). Secondly, the JS (parliament) is one-eyed and lame; and there is no political consensus at the national level (in 40 years). There are no long term development plans in the transport, energy, gas, IWT and the railways; while higher education is controlled by the private universities based on business profit concept. Corruption is all pervasive: and the TIB's preliminary sample reports are criticised by various vested groups. The governance is drifting along without any visible rudder; with false smugness in dynasty rules. What sins we have committed for which we are being punished for four decades?
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