Barishal Correspondent :
Much-anticipated “BarishalBangabandhu Novotheatre (Planetarium) Establishment Project” is not completed even after five years. So far, about 70% of the work of the planetariumhas been completed, officials said. Initially the cost of construction was estimated at Tk 482 crore, but the budgetof the project was later adjusted to Tk 460 crore.
According to project sources, the planetarium is being built on the banks of the Kirtonkhola River at Kamarkathiin Char Kawa Union under Barishal Sadar Upazila near Barishal University and Marine Academy. The project, initiated in 2020 under the Ministry of Science and Technology with funding from the Bangladesh government, was originally slated for completion in 2023.
However, delays have pushed the new target to December 2025. Despite five years having passed since its inception, the constructionremains unfinished, causing frustration among locals who are calling for its swift completion.
Located near Barishal University and the Marine Academy, the planetarium is expected to benefit students the most.
The facility will include a 340-seat gallery, office block, planetarium block, plaza, park, children’s play area, dormitory, and underground parking space for 175 vehicles,Ashraf-ul-Alam, Sub-Divisional Engineer of the Barishal Public Works Department (PWD)informed.
“We’re hopeful this facility will open up new horizons for research in space science,” said Shafikul Islam, a student of Barishal University.
Sanjida Preeti, both university students, echoed the sentiment, said “Even though it’s delayed, having a Novotheatre in Barishal is exciting. It means we’ll be able to explore space science right from our city.”
According to Ashraf-ul-Alam, Sub-Divisional Engineer of the Barishal Public Works Department (PWD), the four-storey structure is nearing completion.
“Only tiles, fittings, and some interior work remain,” he said.
Faisal Alam, Executive Engineer of Barishal PWD, stated, “The project aims to promote science education among students in southern Bangladesh. We’re working tirelessly to complete it as soon as possible.”
He added that once completed, the Barishal Bangabandhu Novotheatre will house exhibitions on space, a 5D edutainment simulator, a digital gallery, a 5D movie theater, and one of the world’s most advanced telescopes for space observation.
About the delay of project completion ,Assistant Project Director Shahidul Islam, said due to complications with land acquisition and challenges in constructing the dome.
“We expect to complete the remaining installations and infrastructure by this December,” APD added.
Gazi Zahid Hossain, President of the Conscious Citizens Committee, expressed disappointment about this situation.
“The long delay means the facility hasn’t yet contributed to cultivating a science-minded generation. We urge authorities to complete the project as soon as possible,” CCP organizer added.
