The Karnaphuli Tunnel, once envisioned as a transformative infrastructure project, has now become a burden on Bangladesh, said Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan, advisor to the ministries of power, energy, mineral resources, road transport, bridges and railways.

“When I passed through the tunnel, it was almost empty. The plan was to boost the economy by developing a deep-water port at Matarbari, connecting it to the tunnel and establishing an economic zone. But now it is leading to financial losses for the country,” he said.

The advisor made these remarks today (November 15) during a views exchange meeting as chief guest with divisional and district officials and representatives, organized by the district administration in the Circuit House conference hall in Chattogram city.

Criticizing several other expensive projects that failed to meet their revenue targets, he said, “Each vehicle of Bapex (Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited) costs Tk 5 crore, but the financial condition of the sector the electricity is disastrous. pay Tk 25,000 crore per year in the power sector. The Padma rail link, built for nearly Tk 40,000 crore, was expected to generate annual revenue of Tk 1,400 crore. However, after six months, it grossed only Tk 37 crore. “

“Such expenditure, carried out under the guise of development, has led to wastage of resources. We must stop such unplanned projects to avoid further financial losses,” he added.

Highlighting the role of the interim government, the advisor added: “Unlike previous administrations, the government bears responsibility for more than 1,000 martyrs of the July uprising, more than 30,000 wounded who are still receiving treatment across the country, and countless students and students. citizens who sacrificed themselves for the nation. We are committed to sustainable development.

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanam, also included remarks from prominent officials and stakeholders, including City Mayor Shahadat Hossain, Secretary Energy and Mineral Resources Mohammad Saiful Islam, Commissioner of Police additional Humayun Kabir, Superintendent of Police Raihan Uddin Khan, Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation. President Md Amin ul Ahsan and Major Mahmud of the 24th Infantry Division of the Army.

Representatives of government agencies, self-governing organizations, political parties, religious institutions and student leaders were also present at the event.