Questioning high growth

As the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics released detailed figures of economic growth posted at 8.15 per cent last year, some economists questioned the manufacturing growth estimated at 14.20 per cent.

They reportedly argued that such growth is hardly compatible with slowdown in exports, lower domestic demand and stagnation in private investment. There was no such investment in technology and labour productivity in recent years that could spur growth, according to the economists.

Commoners expect development would create jobs, improve utility services and road transport and ensure better city life and none would starve. Higher youth unemployment, costly utilities, unsafe roads and traffic congestion, massive pollution and hunger situation sharply contrasts statistically shown growth in gross domestic product (GDP).

S Mahmud

Mohammadpur

Dhaka