Editorial
The Odommo Chattagram initiative
Chittagong's potential must be developed fully
The Daily Star takes immense pride in what in a sense is re-launching of the port city through 'Odommo Chattagram' initiative. The gala opening at the M.A. Aziz Stadium yesterday has lifted the curtains on a 12-day event, which will, among other things, reveal the rich 1400 year-old history of Chittagong, display the diverse culture of the region, and deliberate on the ways and means of developing the huge economic potential of the region, the port in particular.
Chittagong has shown to the rest of the country the various facets of its indomitable spirit at various times in our long history including the anti-British movement and the War of Liberation. And it has shown its resilience by bouncing back after every natural calamity. Therefore, the name 'Oddommo Chattagram' is, we feel a true reflection of the character of the people of Chittagong, and which must be narrated to the rest of Bangladesh. It is through this initiative that we commit to become a part of the future growth of Chittagong.
The importance of Chittagong to the country's economic development can never be overemphasized. The only seaport is being sought by our neighbours, it being more economical for their foreign trade. And if it has to become a world class port it cannot be so with having a world class city. And it is not a question of if, but how soon we can get the deep seaport going. The need to develop Chittagong's hinterland is very urgent indeed. And one cannot think of a world class port if it did not have the benefit of good communication links to other parts of the country and to the region including a world class airport.
It is through the 'Oddommo Chattagram' initiative that the issues will be delved into by the relevant experts, hopefully resulting in definitive pointers for the policy makers which The Daily Star will project and pursue.
We take this opportunity to thank all those that have associated with us in this venture; and we feel very happy to say that, in keeping with the importance of Chittagong, The Daily Star has felt it appropriate to bring out a Chittagong edition, which was launched on 30 March 2012.
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