Dhaka, Nov 02 (V7N)- Professor Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to the interim government, has called for accelerating the integrated development of roads, railways, airways, and waterways while ensuring that nature, rivers, and the environment remain unharmed.

He made the remarks at an inter-ministerial meeting on the mid-term evaluation and strategic planning of the Central Integrated Multimodal Transport Sector Master Plan of Bangladesh, held at the State Guest House Jamuna on Sunday (November 2).

The chief advisor emphasized the urgent need to organize the country’s chaotic communication system, warning that failure to do so could choke economic growth. He stressed that all initiatives must protect rivers, maintain water flow, and minimize environmental impact, calling water a "great national resource."

During the meeting, the Roads and Highways Department presented a preliminary strategic plan outlining how the country’s transport networks can be coordinated and optimized through minor reforms and expansions.

Dr. Yunus urged officials to implement the plan effectively, keeping economic prosperity, regional and global connectivity, and river-based transportation in mind.

Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor Dr. Sheikh Moinuddin highlighted efforts to establish a comprehensive communication model as an economic lifeline. Planning Advisor Wahiduddin Mahmud called for rapid construction of minor roads to ensure national connectivity, while Local Government Advisor Asif Mahmud announced the formation of a planners wing in the Local Government Department.

BIDA Chairman Ashiq Chowdhury noted that three new ports will be launched in Chittagong by 2030 and stressed the need for effective road connectivity to these ports.

END/SMA/AJ