Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Dr Fouzul Kabir Khan today emphasized the need to reduce fuel wastage and curb corruption to ensure the optimal use of the country’s limited resources.
He made the remarks while inaugurating Bangladesh’s first-ever underground Chattogram-Dhaka pipeline facility, designed to transport fuel oil, at the Dispatch Terminal in Patenga, Chattogram.
“Unusual expenditure on public projects has become a major concern for balanced national development,” he said, referring to delays in the pipeline construction project, which was initially scheduled for completion in 2020. He also noted that road infrastructure costs in South Asia are higher than in many other countries.
Fouzul expressed satisfaction over the successful completion of the facility, highlighting its role in advancing technology in the country’s fuel and energy sector.
He added that reducing corruption and fuel wastage is vital to facilitate technological progress and create a favourable environment for sustainable growth.
Appreciating the Bangladesh Armed Forces for executing the challenging project, he called upon stakeholders to work with innovation and integrity in future development schemes.
The project, implemented by Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) through the 24 Engineering Construction Brigade of the Bangladesh Army, cost Tk 3,699 crore, according to project director Abdul Haque.
Under the project, a 241.28-kilometer underground pipeline with a 16-inch diameter from Chattogram to Godnail in Narayanganj, and an 8.29-kilometer pipeline with a 10-inch diameter from Godnail to Fatulla, Narayanganj, have been installed.
Officials said the facility will significantly reduce transportation time, minimize environmental risks, prevent pilferage, and ensure smooth fuel supply even during adverse weather conditions.
Md Amin Ul Ahsan, Chairman of BPC, presided over the function, while Energy and Mineral Resources Secretary Mohammad Saiful Islam, Engineer-in-Chief of the Bangladesh Army Major General M Hasan-Uz-Zaman, and Dr AKM Azadur Rahman, Director of BPDB, spoke at the event.
MN/
