Khulna:Administrator of Khulna City Corporation (KCC), Nazrul Islam Manju, has announced plans to revitalize the city's economy by 2034. The aim is to restore Khulna's former status as a prominent port and industrial hub through practical initiatives, coordinated efforts, and investments.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Manju highlighted that Khulna was once a prosperous city well-known across the country for its port and industrial activities. However, challenges such as lack of employment opportunities, drug abuse, and law and order issues have hindered its potential. The administrator expressed a commitment to regaining the city's lost fame.
Manju was speaking at a roundtable discussion on "Industrialisation and Economic Development Strategy for Khulna Urban Region 2050," held at a city hotel. The event was organized by Accompanying Major Consultant (AMC) under the Climate Change Adapted Urban Development (CCAUD) Programme Phase II, with support from the German government.
Experts from various fields attended the meeting to explore strategies to strengthen Khulna's economy by 2034. Discussions focused on developing a coordination mechanism involving KCC, Khulna Development Authority (KDA), government agencies, industrial enterprises, financial institutions, universities, and private investors to achieve shared economic development goals.
The proposed strategy, extending to 2050, will consider current and future climate change risks. It aims to provide a roadmap with priority activities, assigned responsibilities, and implementation timelines. It will also identify necessary resources, funding estimates, and potential financing sources.
Participants in the discussion included Professor Dr. Nishad Nasrin of Khulna University, AMAM Sea Foods Ltd Chairman Humayun Kabir, Sartaj Trade International Managing Director Badrul Alam Markin, and other local leaders and experts.