Energy Minister at Barapukuria: Why Import Fuel When We Have Our Own?
Photo: Agamir Somoy
Bangladesh is a people’s government, and national development must be driven by the use of the country’s own resources—not foreign dependence, said Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku, Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.
He made these remarks on Tuesday afternoon while visiting the Barapukuria Coal Mine in Parbatipur, Dinajpur.
After inspecting the mine and holding a meeting with officials, the minister spoke to journalists. He said that for the past 17 years, a “fascist government” had ruled the country and ignored domestic resources, creating an import-dependent energy system.
“We were elected in the last election. Our prime minister believes that we are a people’s government. We want to extract and use the resources that belong to the people,” Tuku said. “Energy is the first requirement for development. When we have our own energy resources, why should we import fuel from abroad?” he questioned.
Outlining the government’s plans, the minister said discussions are underway on how to bring all stakeholders together and extract domestic energy resources in a way that satisfies everyone and supports national development.
Accompanying him during the visit were Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Dr. A. Z. M. Zahid Hossain, State Minister for Energy Anindya Islam Amit, Whip Akhtaruzzaman Mia, Dinajpur-5 MP A. Z. M. Rezwanul Haque, Dinajpur-3 MP Jahangir Alam, and Dinajpur Deputy Commissioner Rafiqul Islam.
Following the meeting, the minister listened to problems raised by residents of nearby villages and assured them of solutions. He also instructed the managing director of the Barapukuria Coal Mine to provide compensation to those affected by mining activities within two days.
