ZCZC
BSS-40
DAY-ENERGY-SECURITY
National Energy Security Day tomorrow
DHAKA, Aug 08, 2019 (BSS) – The National Energy Security Day will be observed tomorrow commemorating the historic decision taken by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 9 in 1975.
After independence, Bangabandhu had undertaken various initiatives to develop the country’s energy sector and bought five gas fields from the then British Oil company ‘Shell Oil’ for the state at a nominal price. The government has been observing the day since 2010.
President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave separate messages on the eve of the day.
In his message, President Abdul Hamid said the observance of the National Energy Security Day will help create awareness about rational use of gas considering the increased energy demand in the country.
“Energy is the precondition to development. The greatest Bangalee of all times Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman realized that energy security is necessary for making the country happy and prosperous,” he said.
The President said that it is possible to turn Bangladesh into an industry-based and developed country by using the main mineral resources natural gas properly and moderately, adding, “The government has undertaken various initiatives in this regard.”
In her message, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called upon all to be more caring to ensure the best use of natural gas and prevent wastage of this resource by using the natural gas properly and moderately aimed at materializing Vision 2021 and Vision 2041.
She hoped that the observance of the National Energy Security Day would play an important role in creating public awareness and for economic development of the country.
The Prime Minister said the greatest Bangalee of all times Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had undertaken various initiatives to develop the country’s energy sector after independence and bought five gas fields from the then British Oil Company ‘Shell Oil’ for the state at a nominal price.
She said in January 2009 the daily production of natural gas was only 1,744 million cubic feet, which has now increased to 3,250 million cubic feet and so the country’s industrialization is moving fast.
During the Awami League government, the number of gas fields has increased to 27, she said.
In order to increase Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX)’s technical capabilities, she said, various components needed to conduct exploration activities have been purchased including 4 advanced technology rigs capable of digging deep wells.
Three gas compressor stations (Muchai, Ashuganj and Elenga) have been set up to maintain gas pressure in the gas circulation pipeline, the premier said, adding that gas network has been expanded in Rajshahi.
She said the government has undertaken gas and oil exploration and production activities in the Bay of Bengal through settlement of maritime disputes with India and Myanmar.
Under the formation of the ‘Blue-Economy Cell’, several international oil companies are currently engaged in oil and gas exploration works in both shallow and deep sea, she said, adding: A ‘2D Non-Exclusive Multi-Client Seismic Survey’ has been undertaken to bring more investment in oil and gas exploration in the sea sides.”
BSS/PR/SRH/KU/2029 HRS