TDS Desk:

The interim government appears to be a continuation of the previous Awami League administration as it refuses to cancel controversial deals signed under the Speedy Increase of Power and Energy Supply (Special Provision) Act 2010, has said Prof Anu Muhammad, leader of the National Committee to Protect Oil-Gas, Mineral Resources and Power-Port.

Speaking at a seminar on Wednesday at DRU on coal-fired power plants, he said the government upheld past agreements despite repealing the Special Act. “This shows the government stance remains unchanged,” he said.

He also criticised the recent long-term LNG import contract with a US company, signed without any tender, questioning how such a deal could be justified.

Though the government claims it is a non-binding agreement, he warned that lobbyists would push for its implementation.

The seminar, titled “Coal-fired Power Plants – What is the Experience?”, was organised by Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (BAPA).

Presenting on the state and future of coal-fired power plants, Prof Nazrul Islam highlighted their potential long-term impacts.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof MM Akash warned that the government’s plan to increase gas prices to Tk 72 per unit for consumers using additional gas would negatively impact industries. “We need quality energy at an affordable cost, which can be achieved by exploring local gas resources,” he added.

Mohammed Mukteruzzaman, Principal Specialist at the Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS), said his study on the Rampal coal-fired power plant found that the plant’s management had not fully complied with regulations, despite efforts to do so.

Sabur Rana, a resident of Rampal, said that the plant’s impact is already evident, with declining fish production in nearby rivers and increasing health issues due to emissions.

He stressed the need for strong public pressure to phase out coal power plants.