Bhola: The government is planning to develop an economic zone in the gas-rich district of Bhola, following interest from several reputed companies eager to establish industries in the area. Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, and Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin confirmed the initiative during a view-exchange meeting held this afternoon, presided over by Bhola's Deputy Commissioner, M Azad Jahan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the advisers also visited the proposed site for a urea fertilizer factory that will utilize the district's natural gas resources. Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan emphasized that the government will not supply gas for household purposes. He also assured that construction of the Bhola-Barishal bridge will commence following a feasibility study.
The meeting was attended by several key figures, including Bhola district BNP convener Golam Nabi Alamgir, senior joint convener Shafiur Rahman Kiron, member secretary Raisul Alam, joint convener Humayun Kabir Sopan, Islamic Andolon general secretary Tariqul Islam, and young entrepreneur Engineer Hedayat Ali Arun.
Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan highlighted the potential of Bhola's natural gas reserves, which are not as abundant in other parts of the country. Following the meeting, he noted to journalists that the gas could be used for manufacturing fertilizer, which is why the feasibility of setting up a factory is being explored.
The visit also included a stop at the Shahbajpur gas field under the Bhorhanuddin upazila earlier in the day. Data from the Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) indicates that Bhola boasts a proven gas reserve of 2.24 trillion cubic feet (TCF).