Gas crisis hits development

Siam Ahmed:

Despite its strong potential, the northern region is failing to attract new industrial investments due to a persistent gas crisis. On the contrary, many existing factories are being forced to shut down because of the shortage. Business leaders argue that if adequate gas connections are ensured for the industrial sector, numerous enterprises could be established in this region.

With promises of gas connections, the northern region saw significant potential for the establishment of new industries two decades ago. In 2013, Pashchimanchal Gas Company Limited began supplying gas through pipelines to residential areas and 40 industrial establishments.

In 2016, the authorities suspended new gas connections citing a supply crisis. This dashed hopes for an industrial boom in the region. Stakeholders have stated that without a steady gas supply, operations cannot continue, as alternative energy sources are significantly more expensive. If the situation persists, many factories may be forced to shut down.

Over a hundred small and large-scale industrial factories have been established in different districts including Rajshahi, Naogaon, Bogura, Sirajganj and Pabna of Rajshahi division. The lack of gas connections, most are being forced to rely on alternative fuels, which has significantly increased production costs. As a result, numerous enterprises in different BSCIC industrial zones are shutting down one after another.

Business leaders said that, providing gas connections to the industrial sector would not only encourage the establishment of new enterprises but also create employment opportunities.

Syedul Islam, Acting President of the Bogura Chamber of Commerce and Industries, stated that, “If factories receive a steady gas supply, production costs would be significantly reduced.”

President of the Sirajganj Chamber of Commerce and Industries Saidur Rahman Bacchu said, “Providing gas connections to industrial establishments would not only lead to the creation of new industries, but also generate employment opportunities for a large number of people. As a result, there would be a significant transformation in the region’s socio-economic landscape.”

However, officials have assured that, gas supply to the industrial sector will resume soon.

Deputy General Manager of BSCIC Bogura AKM Mahfuzur Rahman said, “Construction of the second BSCIC industrial zone is currently in progress. Once fully operational, it is expected to eliminate the gas crisis in the industrial sector and create substantial employment opportunities.”

Pashchimanchal Gas Company Limited (PGCL) official sources said that, a list has been sent to the ministry requesting gas connections for seven new industrial establishments. Additionally, applications for gas connections have been submitted by more than 80 other industrial enterprises.

But, no official from the Pashchimanchal Gas Company Limited (PGCL) was willing to make any formal comment in this regard, while contacted.