Posted on April 27, 2026
By Bijoy Dhar
Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Dipen Dewan has announced that the government has undertaken new initiatives to improve education, healthcare, infrastructure, road connectivity, and boost the tourism sector in the remote areas of the Hill Tracts.
He made these remarks on Saturday afternoon while addressing a views-exchange meeting at the Barkal Upazila Parishad auditorium in Rangamati as the chief guest. The meeting was attended by government officials, local representatives, headmen, and SSC examinees.
The minister stated that once implemented, these projects would significantly improve the living standards of people in the region.
He also announced that dredging work in Kaptai Lake will begin soon to address long-standing navigability issues, declining fish production, and obstacles to tourism development. He noted that Kaptai Lake is directly linked to the region’s economy, water transport, fisheries, and tourism.
However, sediment accumulation over the years has reduced navigability, disrupted boat movement, decreased fish production, and negatively impacted tourism. To tackle this situation, the government has decided to carry out dredging operations.
Additionally, he said that mobile network services will soon be expanded to areas in Barkal upazila and other parts of the Hill Tracts that currently lack coverage.
The minister urged all stakeholders to work collectively while maintaining peace and order to ensure the successful implementation of development activities.
