DHAKA, Dec 23, 2018 (BSS) – Finance Minister AMA Muhith today underscored the need for increasing the country’s power generation capacity to its meet ever-increasing demand for achieving the development goals, including Vision-2021 and Vision-2041.
“Electricity is a vital element for increasing capacity to work. So, it is essential for development. Bangladesh has achieved remarkable successes in electricity generation. But, we will have to go far for attaining the development goals,” he said.
The minister was speaking as the chief guest at the launching function of the Taka 385-crore coupon bearing bond at Hotel Intercontinental in the city.
Ashuganj Power Station Company Limited (APSCL) issued the bond titled “Non-Convertible and Fully Redeemable Coupon Bearing Bond”.
Muhith said the private sector is playing a vital role to develop the country by using electricity properly. “In the last 10 years, we have ensured the uninterrupted supply of electricity. Private sector is using the electricity properly and contributing to the country’s development,” he added.
He said the government has fulfilled its initial target by achieving around 20,000 megawatt electricity generation capacity. In future, Bangladesh will have to increase its capacity as the demand of electricity will increase day by day with the expansion of economy, he added.
Among others, Prime Minister’s Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Affairs Adviser Dr Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid, Principal Coordinator (SDG Affairs) of the Prime Minister’s Office M Abul Kalam Azad and Power Secretary Dr Ahmad Kaikus were present. APSCL Chairman Khaled Mahmud presided over the function.
Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury the government is going to form a ‘Gas Distribution Policy’ to ensure proper distribution of gas among the investors.
Nasrul Hamid said the power and energy sector is increasing day by day and the bond will create alternative source for financing the sector.
He urged all to work together for continuing the country’s development trend.