Analyzing the Structure and Efficiency of Upazila Parishad in Service Delivery

Abstract

This study evaluates the structure and efficiency of the Upazila Parishad (UZP) in Bangladesh, focusing on its role in service delivery. The Upazila Parishad, as a local government institution, is tasked with providing essential public services at the grassroots level. Despite its pivotal role in rural administration, the UZP faces significant challenges in fulfilling its service delivery responsibilities. The research analyzes three main factors: the structural framework, operational efficiency, and financial capacity of the UZP. Key findings indicate that the lack of coordination between elected representatives and bureaucrats, limited autonomy due to the national government’s influence, and insufficient financial resources hinder the UZP's performance. Furthermore, the study highlights the inefficiency in manpower allocation and the adverse effects of bureaucratic inefficiencies on service quality. The results show that while the Upazila Parishad plays a crucial role in basic services like road maintenance, sanitation, and primary education, its inability to manage more complex tasks is evident. Additionally, public dissatisfaction with the quality of services provided by the UZP was widespread, with respondents noting poor sanitation and inadequate nutrition services. The study emphasizes the need for structural reforms, enhanced funding, and clearer roles for local officials to improve the effectiveness of the UZP in serving rural communities. The paper suggests that decentralizing administrative control and addressing institutional inefficiencies could significantly enhance local governance and service delivery in rural Bangladesh.