Dhaka: Twenty-five services to come under a single platform in the first phase. Public reaction is mixed. Residents of several areas of the capital said the announcement had raised their hopes, but they would wait until work is visible. Many believe easy access to information would greatly reduce hassle.

According to sources, a large share of the funding for the single online services platform will come from this fiscal year's development budget, with the remainder proposed to be allocated in phases.

What those involved say

Urban planners say local government bodies must be made more active to secure long-term benefits. Regular consultation with citizens would also improve the quality of the work, they believe.

Officials involved with the single online services platform said the initial plan has been finalised and field work will begin within the next few months. A separate committee has been formed to monitor progress and will submit a report every month.

Experts say the initiative is timely, but transparency and accountability in implementation are essential. Several similar projects in the past overran their deadlines and budgets, and they urged officials to learn from that experience.