The government has approved a Tk 1,492.50 crore project to improve rural transport infrastructure in the greater Dinajpur region. The initiative, titled 'Integrated Development Project for Greater Dinajpur (Dinajpur, Thakurgaon and Panchagarh)', aims to upgrade roads, build bridges, and enhance road safety to improve connectivity, economic activities, and employment opportunities in the region. The project, financed entirely by the government, will be implemented by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) under the Local Government Division. Scheduled for completion by June 2030, the project was approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). It includes developing 21.75 kilometres of upazila roads, 171.55 kilometres of union roads, and 842.52 kilometres of village roads to all-weather standards, along with constructing 16 bridges and installing various road safety features.
Project Objectives and Benefits
The primary objective of the project is to strengthen rural connectivity by upgrading roads that link villages with markets, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and other service centers. This will facilitate the transportation and marketing of agricultural and non-agricultural products, reduce travel time and transport costs, and improve access to public services. The project is expected to generate employment during both the construction and operation phases. It is also aligned with the government’s election commitments to gradually pave all rural roads and ensure 'last-mile' connectivity in remote areas.
Economic and Social Impact
The improved road network is expected to help farmers and traders transport local products more efficiently, including Dinajpur’s famous litchi and aromatic rice, Thakurgaon’s mangoes, and Panchagarh’s tea. This will promote tourism in the region, which is home to numerous archaeological and historical sites. The project is also expected to improve access to education, healthcare, and other public services, contributing to poverty reduction and higher living standards in rural communities. A feasibility study conducted in 2025 by consulting firm MIRZA International found the project technically and economically viable, with a Net Present Value (NPV) of Tk 674.99 crore, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 17.12 percent, and a Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.32:1.
