Barishal City Corporation (BCC) has unveiled a proposed budget of Taka 647.53 crore for the 2026–27 fiscal year, focusing on urban development, waterlogging mitigation, safe water supply, modern waste management, environmental protection, and digital public services. The budget, announced by BCC Administrator Advocate Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin, has been prepared without raising taxes despite limited revenue resources. Shirin emphasized the goal of building a planned, green, clean, and smart metropolitan city that is friendly to women and children.
The proposed budget highlights several key projects, including a Tk 769.40 crore project for the re-excavation and protection of major canals to resolve the city's waterlogging problem. Another significant project is the construction of a protective embankment along the western bank of the Kirtankhola River, costing Tk 533 crore. These initiatives aim to provide permanent solutions to long-standing issues.
BCC has also prioritized the expansion of its water supply network and the introduction of modern waste management technologies. An agreement has been signed with a South Korean company to generate electricity from waste. Additionally, the budget includes plans to digitize several civic services to improve efficiency and reduce public inconvenience.
For women and children, the budget allocates funds for various welfare programs, including the construction of modern public toilets, a dedicated market for women entrepreneurs, and sports facilities. BCC also plans to plant 50,000 trees as part of its climate resilience strategy and continue beautification projects across the city.
The original budget for the 2025–26 fiscal year stood at Tk 520.86 crore, while the revised budget was reduced to Tk 462.86 crore. Advocate Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin called on residents, journalists, government agencies, private organizations, and all stakeholders to work together in building a modern, clean, green, and smart Barishal without increasing the tax burden on citizens. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to sustainable urban development and improved public services, which is crucial for Bangladesh's overall progress.
