The Government of Bangladesh has officially allocated ministerial portfolios to two newly appointed Ministers of State, following their induction into the cabinet earlier this month. The formal directive, issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges on Tuesday, 24 February, was made public on Wednesday, marking a significant step in the administration’s efforts to streamline infrastructure and transport management.
According to the official order signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Ajit Deb, the assignments have been made in accordance with the gazette notification previously issued on 17 February. The order instructs all relevant departments to take the necessary administrative measures to facilitate the transition of these new leaders into their respective roles.
Strategic Allocation of Portfolios
The redistribution of duties focuses heavily on the nation’s critical transport infrastructure. Habibur Rashid has been entrusted with the Road Transport and Highways Division, as well as the Ministry of Railways. His appointment comes at a time when the government is under pressure to modernise the rail network and improve road safety standards across the national highways.
Simultaneously, Md. Rajib Ahsan has been tasked with overseeing the Ministry of Shipping and the Bridges Division. This role is considered pivotal given the ongoing expansion of port facilities and the maintenance of major bridge projects that serve as the backbone of the country’s internal connectivity.
Ministerial Assignments at a Glance
The following table outlines the specific divisions and ministries now under the jurisdiction of the newly appointed ministers:
| Minister of State | Portfolio / Department Assigned | Primary Oversight |
| Habibur Rashid | Road Transport & Highways Division | National highway maintenance and road safety |
| Ministry of Railways | Rail infrastructure and service modernisation | |
| Md. Rajib Ahsan | Ministry of Shipping | Port management and maritime trade |
| Bridges Division | Mega-bridge projects and structural maintenance |
Administrative Context
These appointments follow a period of heightened activity within the Cabinet, as the government seeks to revitalise sectors that have faced operational challenges. By splitting the oversight of transport and infrastructure between two dedicated Ministers of State, the administration aims to ensure more granular supervision and faster implementation of development projects.
The official notification has been circulated to all senior officials, including the Cabinet Secretary and the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, to ensure a seamless integration of the new ministers into the executive framework.