ECNEC Approves 13 Development Projects Worth Tk 15,823.57 Crore

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) on Monday approved a Tk1,276 crore project aimed at strengthening financial-sector safety nets, improving bank resolution and restructuring, upgrading Bangladesh Bank’s technology and supporting reforms in state-owned banks.

The Financial Sector Support Project-II will be implemented by Bangladesh Bank from July 2026 to June 2031, with most of the financing coming through the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA).

According to the project document, the initiative comes amid major challenges in Bangladesh’s banking sector, including high levels of non-performing loans, governance weaknesses, capital and liquidity pressures and outdated technological infrastructure.

Around Tk1,077 crore of the project allocation has been earmarked for capital expenditure, including Tk712 crore for ICT equipment and Tk355 crore for computer software. The project will also provide training and consultancy support to strengthen institutional capacity.

The initiative will introduce performance-based measures to improve the Deposit Insurance Trust Fund, strengthen bank resolution and restructuring mechanisms and improve governance in state-owned banks.

The project also seeks to enhance Bangladesh Bank’s supervisory capabilities and integrated information systems, helping authorities respond more effectively to emerging risks, including cyber threats and cross-border financial activities.

13 Projects Worth Tk15,823cr Approved
At the meeting, Ecnec approved 13 projects with a combined estimated cost of Tk15,823.57 crore. Of the total funding, Tk10,188.33 crore will come from the government, Tk5,252.96 crore from foreign loans and Tk451 crore from agencies’ own funds.

Ecnec also approved the third revision of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport expansion project, increasing its cost to Tk22,213 crore from Tk21,365.51 crore.

Other approved projects include the establishment of Patuakhali Medical College and Hospital, digital land-management systems, flood and river management projects, erosion protection along the Meghna River, a solar power plant in Sonagazi, rural infrastructure development and expansion of the electricity network in the three hill districts.

Projects aimed at improving healthcare, disability training facilities and the technical capabilities of the Special Response Battalion were also approved.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman chaired the Ecnec meeting at the Bangladesh Secretariat.