Business Report :
The government wants to restructure the power companies to get rid of irregularities in the power sector, Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir said on Saturday.
“To address widespread irregularities in the power sector, we will restructure the companies and hold those responsible accountable. A committee will investigate allegations and ensure a fair and equitable system for all,” he said at a press briefing following a meeting with officials in the conference room of the 800 MW Rupsha Combined Cycle Power Plant in Khalishpur of Khulna.
The adviser further said, “The Rupsha power plant is a stark example of the paradox of development. While GDP figures suggest progress, the reality is different. Despite spending Tk8,000 crore, the plant cannot function due to insufficient gas.”
Mentioning that the Rupsha power plant’s failure highlights the challenges of development, Fouzul Kabir said, “Gas from Bhola is insufficient, and a new pipeline would take years. We must explore ways to partially operate the plant and ensure that the people benefit.”
This requires innovative solutions and a focus on real-world needs, he added.
Senior Secretary of the Power Division Md Habibur Rahman, Secretary of the Energy and Mineral Resources Department Md Nurul Alam, acting chairman of the Bangladesh Power Development Board Md Rezaul Karim, and acting deputy commissioner of Khulna Md Yusup Ali were present at the meeting.
Earlier in the day, the adviser engaged with public representatives, local civil society members, student coordinators, and officials from the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, and the Ministry of Railways in the conference room of the Khulna Deputy Commissioner’s office.
During the meeting, the adviser listened to the participants’ suggestions and concerns, assuring them of solutions.
