The Economic Relations Division (ERD) is set to host a key meeting today to determine foreign funding support for 25 development projects proposed for inclusion in the next fiscal year’s Annual Development Programme (ADP).

The meeting, chaired by ERD Secretary Shahriar Kader Siddiky, will examine projects with a combined preliminary cost of around Tk 2 trillion. According to ERD officials, the government aims to secure approximately Tk 1.5 trillion of this through external loans and grants.

Notable proposals include the dual-gauge upgrade of the Laksam-Chattogram railway via Chinki Astana, a project with an estimated cost of Tk 159.54 billion. The government is currently in talks with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a Tk 134.49 billion loan to support it.

The agenda also features energy and transport initiatives, including four solar power projects expected to generate 430MW and vessel procurement under the Ministry of Shipping.

The latter includes Tk 18.43 billion in spending for tankers and bulk carriers and a separate Tk 14 billion dredging project. China has agreed to fund both initiatives with Tk 28.48 billion.

Other significant projects include the proposed fifth phase of the Primary Education Development Programme (PEDP-5), a new gas pipeline from Bhola to Khulna, and the establishment of a second unit at Eastern Refinery Limited.

The ADB has pledged Tk 39.66 billion for water infrastructure projects in Khulna, while the World Bank has signed a $ 300 million loan to support the Bangladesh Clean Air Project.