Staff Reporter :
The government has approved a budget of Tk111.19 crore to convert Ganobhaban, the former prime minister’s official residence, into the “July Uprising Memorial Museum.” The museum aims to commemorate the student-led uprising and mass protests that swept the country during July and August 2024, while also highlighting the political repression and public oppression endured over the past 16 years.
The decision was finalized yesterday at a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed at the Secretariat. To expedite the project, the committee decided to bypass the traditional tendering process and proceed via direct purchase, citing time constraints.
The project includes both civil and electro-mechanical (E/M) works. Civil works, covering all construction aspects except electrical and mechanical installations, have been allocated Tk70.36 crore and will be executed by The Civil Engineers Ltd. The E/M works, including wiring, switches, and other technical equipment, have been assigned to Messrs Shuvra Traders with a budget of Tk40.82 crore.
Initially approved on December 24, 2024, the plan to repurpose Ganobhaban as a museum faced potential delays due to standard tender procedures, prompting the decision for direct procurement to ensure timely completion.
The museum will feature artifacts, photographs, and narratives honoring the sacrifices of those who lost their lives during the 2024 uprising. It will also document events related to the political repression faced under the former regime, providing visitors with a comprehensive view of the struggle and resistance.
Officials have indicated that the museum could be inaugurated as early as August 5, marking a significant step in preserving the legacy of the July Uprising and educating future generations about this pivotal chapter in Bangladesh’s history.
