BSS, Chattogram
Terming the Chattogram Port as the life line of country’s economy, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Tajul Islam said that there is no scope to neglect Chattogram port and Chattogram city.
“No mills and factories can be built on the bank of Karnafuli river by giving lease from Chattogram Shah Amanat Airport to the port city. Because the country’s economic interest is involved with Chattogram Port and Karnafuli river,” Tajul said.
He said that the divisional commissioner has been given the responsibility to supervise the ongoing Tk 9,000 crore project to alleviate water logging in Chattogram city.
“The divisional commissioner will form a committee with the concerned people including the city mayor,” the minister said. Tajul said this as chief guest while exchanging views at local Circuit House on Saturday to review the measures taken to reduce water logging in the port city, increase navigability of the Karnafuli river and prevent encroachment and pollution.
Tajul said that pollution and encroachment would increase if infrastructure was built on the bank of the Karnafuli river. This will destroy the environment, uniqueness and beauty of Karnafuli river, he added.
The minister directed the concerned authority to take action against those involved in the occupation and pollution of the Karnafuli river.
He said that the project is being implemented by Chattogram Development Authority through the Bangladesh Army to remove water logging from the port city.
“When the work will be completed, the city dwellers will get the benefits. If there is any defect in the project, it is being investigated. If found, it must be corrected. A committee has been formed for this purpose,” he added.
The minister also said that Bangabandhu’s daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is sincere enough for the development of Chattogram.
“Many projects have been undertaken at the direction of the Prime Minister for the overall development of the Chattogram city. If these projects will be implemented, Chattogram city will be transformed into a modern city,” he added.
Divisional Commissioner Kamrul Hasan presided over the function while City Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Senior Secretary Helaluddin Ahmed, Senior Secretary Kabir Bin Anwar, District Council Chairman MA Salam, WASA MD Engineer AK Fazlullah, CDA Chairman Zahirul Alam Dobhas, among others, participated in the function.