Complex projects need an effective high-level coordinating body. For a complex, multicomponent project, regular monitoring of the implementation progress by the government through a high-level plenary body or a steering committee is indispensable. Regular interaction among the borrower, the stakeholders, consultants, contractors and suppliers, and ADB through the executing agencies project implementation units contributed greatly to the success of the project. Plan and coordinate preliminary activities well to minimize delays. The executing agencies need to pursue a set of well-planned and concerted actions to ensure timely completion of all activities for land acquisition and resettlement, removal of utilities from rights of way, government approval of the initial environmental examination and environmental mitigation plan, and continued coordination with local government authorities. Delay in implementation of the Roads and Highways Department component was mostly attributed to delays in (i) procedures and decision making related to procurement, (ii) land acquisition and resettlement including removal of public utilities, and (iii) receiving clearance from Chittagong City Corporation on the construction of pier 19 of the flyover. Use advance actions. The project experienced implementation delays of about 42 months for several reasons. The absence of the borrower's advance action caused these start-up delays and adversely affected project implementation. ADB has emphasized this issue through its country programming review missions and tripartite project review missions, and has included in most ADB-assisted projects provisions for advance action for the selection of consultants, stakeholder consultation, and preparatory work for land acquisition and resettlement. Ensure sufficient consultation during project preparation. The Custom House of Chittagong's decision during implementation not to use ADB funds for their automation program indicated the need for greater consultation with the executing agencies and other stakeholders during project preparation.
Chittagong Port Trade Facilitation Project