Sylhet-3 in Chains of NeglectDevelopment Stagnant, Public Outrage on the Rise in Sylhet

The long-standing neglect and stepmotherly attitude toward the Sylhet region have now reached an alarming level. Once a vibrant and prosperous area, Sylhet today suffers from infrastructural decay, administrative complications, and a paralyzing stagnation of development.

The residents of Sylhet-3 constituency are particularly enduring severe crises in civic amenities, transportation, healthcare, and security.

Stepmotherly Treatment Toward Sylhet

The people of Sylhet allege that negligence toward the region—beginning under the previous government—has only intensified. Growing public resentment reflects the government’s inefficiency and indifference.

Power Outages and Deteriorating Roads

Frequent power cuts, dilapidated roads, and widespread waterlogging inside the city have become part of daily life for the people.

Stalled Sylhet–Dhaka Highway Project

The slow progress of the six-lane Sylhet–Dhaka highway construction has become the greatest suffering for Sylhet residents. The current state of the road is so poor that it often takes 15 to 16 hours to reach Dhaka, effectively isolating Sylhet from the capital.

Neglect of an Expatriate-Dominated Region

Despite being one of the most expatriate-heavy regions in Bangladesh, Sylhet remains deprived due to lack of government attention. Although remittances from Sylheti expatriates contribute massively to the national economy, local residents are deprived of its benefits.

Bureaucratic Complications at Sylhet Airport

Due to bureaucratic red tape at Osmani International Airport, new airlines are not being allowed to operate flights. As a result, both expatriates and local passengers face immense suffering.

Service Deprivation Within the City Corporation

Although part of Sylhet-3 falls under the City Corporation, locals remain deprived of basic civic services. Birth registration, drainage, road repair, and water management are in deplorable condition.

Severe Crisis in the Health Sector

Shortage of doctors, lack of medicines, unhygienic conditions, and negligence have crippled healthcare facilities. People are being deprived of proper medical services and left helpless.

Rising Crime Among Youth

Incidents of theft, robbery, mugging, and drug abuse are increasing among the youth. Locals have expressed concern that without strong administrative intervention, this growing trend cannot be stopped.

Stagnation in the Education Sector

Although the construction of two college buildings in the constituency has been completed, classes have yet to begin. Students are being deprived of higher education, causing frustration among parents and communities.

Political Violence and Fear

Dr. Mohammad Foyez Uddin, MBE, claims he has been resisting political thuggery and violence for the past 16 years. He reports that his banners, posters, and festoons are being torn down, while his supporters face intimidation and fear when participating in campaigns.

Call to the Administration

Dr. Foyez Uddin expressed his hope that the administration will take swift action to curb such crimes and political violence. He stated,

> “To restore the fundamental rights of the people of Sylhet, we must ensure equality in development initiatives and give top priority to public welfare.”

People’s Expectations

According to civil society members, it is urgent to take effective central action to break the cycle of neglect and ensure equitable development in Sylhet. Blessed with expatriate income, tourism potential, and natural resources, Sylhet now deserves genuine government priority and fair development attention.

The writer is a human rights activist, columnist, international researcher and political analyst, and the chairman of New Hope Global, based in Birmingham, UK.