Unveiling the Ripple Effects: A Deep Dive into Public Procurement Delays and Stakeholder Impacts in Bangladesh's Upazila Construction Projects

This research explores the causes of delays in public procurement processes in Bangladesh, focusing on construction projects at the upazila level. Employing a qualitative research methodology, the study aims to understand the public procurement landscape comprehensively. Data is meticulously gathered through structured interviews with key stakeholders, including procurement officials, suppliers, and policymakers, who are integral to the system. The findings reveal that delays in public procurement projects are predominantly caused by financial resource deficiencies, which hinder the timely initiation of projects. Bureaucratic entanglements and issues related to the tendering process are significant impediments to project progress, especially in large-scale ventures. Additionally, the study identifies other significant obstacles, such as workforce shortages and land acquisition complications, which further delay project timelines. The recruitment of consultants, particularly for donor-funded projects, adds another layer of complexity to the project initiation phase. These delays have extensive ramifications, affecting various stakeholders. Procuring authorities face fiscal losses, contractors experience economic hardships, and the general public suffers from disruptions in essential services and daily activities.