Coal-based power plants stressed

Minister admits failure in addressing power crisis

11 May 2010, 18:00 PM

Unb, Dhaka

Industries Minister Dilip Barua has admitted that the government could not fulfil the “people's expectations” regarding a solution to the power crisis. “Unfortunately we couldn't address the power crisis quickly as expected by the countrymen. It's simply because there has never been a long-term, realistic policy on power generation,” he said this while he was addressing a pre-budget discussion at the National Press Club yesterday. Barua, however, assured the people that the government would solve the power crisis through implementation of its short, mid and long-term plans, and sought time from the people to ensure a country free from loadshedding. Economic Reporters Development Foundation (ERDF) organised the discussion. President of Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BMCCI) Syed Moazzem Hossain, former president of Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industries MA Momen, industrialist Sheikh Masudul Islam Masud and journalist Jibon Islam spoke at the discussion. Pointing his finger at the BNP-Jamaat alliance government, Barua said: “Those who are actually responsible for the ongoing power crisis in the country have suddenly become impatient.” He said the government has made much progress in utilising all avenues to address the power crisis. “It's a pro-people government. Through coordinated efforts power crisis will be solved to encourage both local and foreign entrepreneurs.” Barua said the government would take necessary steps to modernise the power transmission and distribution systems in the country. “Increasing generation alone won't work to solve the power crisis, unless smooth transmission and distribution systems are also ensured.” Contemplating a long-term solution to the power crisis, he said: “It' s time to go for coal-based power plants. We have world's best quality coal.” Barua emphasised the importance of the transition to an industrialised economy from an agricultural economy. “We have limited land with a huge population. So, we don't have any alternative but to switch over to an industry-based economy,” he said. He said Bangladesh is a unique place for foreign investment. “Now we only need to solve the electricity crisis which is the driving force to encouraging foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country.” Moazzem said the government had provided false data regarding power generation and actual demand in the country in the past. He asked the government to find out the real demand for power instead of providing false data. Moazzem suggested that the government should go for big power plants and fix some priority sectors like the industrial sector instead of the service sector. He urged the industries minister to take effective steps so that coal policy can be approved within the quickest possible time.