In the heart of Jalirpar union, nestled within Muksudpur upazila of Gopalganj, lies Bil Chanda village—a place that until recently knew the rustic simplicity of rural life.
Saturday, a wave of anticipation and gratitude sweeps through its lanes as the promise of urban amenities becomes a reality, thanks to a groundbreaking initiative by LGED under the "My Village, My City" project.
Initiated with a budget of Tk 800 crore, this ambitious pilot project aims to uplift 15 selected villages, including Bil Chanda, by bridging the gap between rural and urban living standards—a pledge deeply rooted in the Awami League’s 2018 election manifesto.
Enhancing lives with key developments
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and local MP Muhammad Faruq Khan, Bil Chanda is set to witness a series of transformative changes:
The initiative in Bil Chanda village is comprehensive and transformative. It includes the construction of extensive infrastructure spanning 657 kilometres of roads, bridges, and culverts to enhance transportation and connectivity.
Access to clean fuel is being facilitated through the distribution of 53,000 "Bandhu Chula" stoves, reducing indoor air pollution and improving residents' health. Public amenities like biogas systems, street lights, and new rural markets aim to enhance daily life and stimulate the local economy.
The project also addresses crucial needs such as clean water and sanitation with piped water systems, tubewells, and a significant budget allocation. Modern housing initiatives are set to improve living conditions, while cultural and sports centres promote community engagement and provide recreational opportunities. Professional training for youth aims at empowering them with skills for better livelihoods, while environmental initiatives like afforestation and waste management promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
Driving implementation and collaboration
The Local Government Department, under Minister Tajul Islam's guidance, spearheads this multi-faceted endeavour, pooling resources across 24 ministries and departments. This collaborative effort ensures that every aspect of the project—from planning to execution—meets the highest standards of efficiency and inclusivity.
Transforming Bil Chanda: Voices from the village
Already, the project has begun to weave its magic in Bil Chanda. Cynthia, a spirited 10th-grade student, expressed her delight at the newfound convenience of reaching school without the arduous three-kilometer trek. Ibrahim, a local grocer, noted a burgeoning optimism in his business, buoyed by enhanced accessibility and community vitality.
Optimism and commitment
Muksudpur Upazila Engineer Md. Abdullah-Al-Rashedi and Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Azizur Rahman voiced confidence in the project’s successful completion, highlighting its potential to drive unprecedented socio-economic growth. Executive Engineer Md. Ehsanul Haque underscored the far-reaching impact anticipated from this initiative—a promise of a brighter, more prosperous future for Bil Chanda and beyond.
The "My Village, My City" project stands not just as a testament to development but as a beacon of hope for rural communities aspiring to the comforts of urban living. As Bil Chanda embraces its new trajectory, the transformative journey promises to redefine lives and landscapes alike, paving the way for a more equitable and vibrant Bangladesh.
