Several hundred engineers formed a human chain in Dhaka city on Thursday to protest against a government order that empowers deputy commissioners (DCs) to monitor development projects.
To this end, public administration ministry issued the order on January 18 during the DC conference in the capital.
It directed to open a special wing under the DCs to supervise and evaluate 100-per cent projects under the annual development programme (ADP).
The human chain stretched from the footpath opposite Matsya Bhaban to Shahbagh crossing.
A band of speakers at the programme also warned of a greater movement if the order is not withdrawn immediately.
The Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh organised the rally in the morning.
Engineers working in various government agencies, including Water Development Board, Roads and Highways Department, Local Government Engineering Department, Public Health Engineering Department, joined it.
Other professional bodies like Krishibid Samaj and Bangabandhu Prokoushali Parisad expressed their solidarity with the joiners.
The speakers criticised the state initiative to undermine the contribution of different professionals in the name of monitoring and evaluation.
They say professionals experience through academic knowledge and field work leaving contribution to the country's growth.
"How non-technical DCs understand the work?" the engineers questioned.
Terming the order illogical, the participants say it is an ill motive to establish bureaucratic control over engineers.
They warned that all engineers would take to the streets in protest against the decision if it is not withdrawn immediately.
