Published: 12:25 AM, 15 November 2026
Expenses on Cosmetic Projects Must Be Curtailed
Bangladesh is a developing country facing numerous economic and social challenges. Despite notable progress in infrastructure development and economic growth, millions of people continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, educational deficiencies and rising living costs. At a time when public resources are limited and national priorities demand careful attention, unnecessary expenditure on cosmetic development projects must be curtailed. Development should be measured by tangible improvements in people's lives rather than the visual attractiveness of public infrastructure.
In recent years, concerns have emerged over excessive spending on decorative installations, ornamental streetlights, extravagant architectural designs, beautification schemes and other projects that offer limited benefits to ordinary citizens. While beautification and urban development have their legitimate purposes, they should never take precedence over essential public services. Spending enormous sums on decorative structures while hospitals lack medical equipment and educational institutions suffer from inadequate facilities raises serious questions about the priorities of public authorities.
Bangladesh needs more investment in functional infrastructure than superficial development. Rural roads, drainage systems, flood protection embankments, safe drinking water facilities and reliable public transportation deserve greater attention. Similarly, public hospitals require modern diagnostic equipment, sufficient medicines and qualified medical professionals. Schools and colleges need better classrooms, laboratories, libraries and trained teachers. These investments can generate lasting social and economic benefits.
Another troubling aspect of cosmetic projects is the possibility of financial irregularities and unnecessary cost escalation. When project designs are unnecessarily complicated and procurement procedures lack transparency, public money can be wasted. Weak monitoring and inadequate accountability may further increase the financial burden on taxpayers. Therefore, every development project should undergo rigorous feasibility assessments, independent financial scrutiny and transparent implementation.
The government must adopt a needs-based approach to public investment. Development proposals should be evaluated according to their economic viability, social benefits and long-term sustainability. Projects that primarily serve decorative purposes should receive lower priority unless they offer demonstrable public value. Regular audits and effective parliamentary oversight are also essential to ensure responsible expenditure.
Bangladesh cannot afford to waste scarce public resources on unnecessary extravagance. Every taka saved from wasteful expenditure can be redirected toward employment generation, poverty alleviation, healthcare, education and climate resilience. The country's development aspirations require prudent financial management and a clear understanding of public priorities.
