Foisal Ahmed
Bangladesh has embarked on its first-ever digital land survey initiative, aiming to make the traditionally manual and time-consuming process more transparent, efficient, and accessible.
According to the Department of Land Records and Surveys, a pilot project—initiated in 2018 with technical and financial support from the Government of Korea is currently underway in selected regions.
The project is being implemented in the regions including Dhamrai, Manikganj, Narayanganj, Chattogram city, and Kushtia, where digital methods of land surveying are being tested.
The initiative is part of a big effort to modernize land management and reduce disputes caused by inaccurate or outdated records.
Speaking to The Bangladesh Mail, Md Saidur Rahman, Director General of the Department of Land Records and Surveys, said, “Under the project, we are focusing on manpower development and technical training. Since this is the first time the land survey is being digitized in Bangladesh, our officials need to adapt to the new technology. The learning process is taking some time, and we may need to extend the deadline.”
The pilot project was initially scheduled to conclude by 2026, but officials indicated that the timeline may be revised to ensure proper capacity building of staff.
As part of the project, specialized training programs are being conducted to enhance the technical knowledge of field-level and office-level officials. These training sessions are designed to help them operate new surveying tools, software, and data management systems.
Meanwhile, experts believe that the digital system will ensure greater transparency.
Md. Mofaez Mia, a former land official, said the online survey system will significantly reduce corruption, manipulation, and delays in land-related services.
He also noted that citizens are expected to benefit from easier access to land records, quicker resolution of disputes, and greater accuracy in documentation.
If it becomes successful, the government plans to expand the online land survey system nationwide, creating what officials describe as a “land governance revolution” in Bangladesh, according to DG.
Meanwhile, according to insiders, several countries, including South Korea, Sweden, the Netherlands and India, have already introduced digital or online land survey systems, which have significantly improved transparency, reduced land disputes, and ensured easier public access to land records.
Inspired by these global practices, Bangladesh is now taking its first steps toward a fully digital land management system, officials said.
