Assessment of challenges in dredging sector of Bangladesh using novel best-worst multi-criteria decision-making method

Abstract

The dredging sector in Bangladesh plays a crucial role in maintaining the navigability of its rivers and waterways, which is essential for flood mitigation and transportation. The waterways in Bangladesh face issues such as rapid sedimentation, erosion, and reduced navigability, necessitating constant dredging to ensure year-round utility. This study examines the current state of the dredging sector, identifying significant challenges across technical, managerial, and financial domains. The methodology employed in this study includes an extensive literature review and data collection through surveys and interviews with stakeholders, including management and operational personnel from both public and private dredging organizations. Using the Best Worst Method (BWM), a multi-criteria decision-making method, this study evaluates the relative importance of each challenge. The BWM was chosen for its efficiency and ability to generate consistent results compared to other multi-criteria decision analysis methods. The research identifies key challenges in the dredging sector, categorizing them into three main criteria: technical, financial, and managerial challenges. Key challenges are high capital investment requirements, insufficient training programs for dredging personnel, reliance on outdated technology, inefficiencies in dredged material disposal, inadequate dredging equipment, operational inefficiencies and poor coordination among stakeholders and fragmented responsibilities arising from bureaucratic hurdles, which hinder effective dredging operations. Key findings indicate that high investment costs and budget constraints are the most critical barriers, followed by mechanical problems due to reliance on older systems, which lead to inefficiencies and increased downtime. Siltation and sedimentation management remain significant issues, necessitating frequent and costly maintenance dredging. The findings suggest that addressing these issues requires modernized practices, improved funding, and better coordination among organizations. Recommendations include reusing dredged material, policy reforms, and increased investment in research and innovation to promote sustainable dredging practices and enhance operational efficiency.