Labor and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury addressed the gathering as the chief guest at a function organized by the Sylhet district administration on Sunday. Photo: BSS

SYLHET, March 15, 2026 (BSS) - Labour and Employment and Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury today said construction work on the Dhaka-Sylhet and Sylhet-Chattogram six-lane highways will begin soon.

"The Prime Minister is aware of the matter and necessary instructions have already been given to the concerned authorities to expedite the process," he said.

The minister made the remarks while addressing a doa and iftar mahfil organized by the Sylhet District Administration in the city.

Referring to the law and order situation, he said the temporary deterioration in Sylhet has been brought under control through collective efforts.

Ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, law enforcement agencies have been directed to strengthen their activities further to ensure stability, he added.

He also said Sylhet is a major tourist destination and, considering the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr, authorities have been instructed to keep road communication smooth.

Necessary facilities, including toilets, restrooms and safe drinking water, will be provided at important tourist spots, he said.

Security measures will also be enhanced for the safety of visitors, he added.

Later, the minister distributed Eid gifts among the families of July Uprising fighters at the Circuit House under the initiative of the Sylhet District Administration.

Recalling journalist Abu Turab, who was martyred during the July Uprising, he said the sacrifices made during the movement will remain memorable and are deeply respected by the government.

Senior civil and police officials, political leaders, professionals, family members of July martyrs and journalists were present.