Karnaphuli Tunnel now burden on Bangladesh, says Adviser Fauzul

The Karnaphuli Tunnel, once envisioned as a transformative infrastructure project, has now become a burden for Bangladesh, said Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan, adviser 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 aimed to boost the economy by developing a deep seaport in Matarbari, connecting it with the tunnel, and establishing an economic zone. But now it is causing financial losses for the country," he said.

The adviser made these remarks today (15 November) while addressing a views-exchange meeting as a chief guest with divisional and district-level officials and representatives, organised by the district administration at the Circuit House conference room in Chattogram city.

Criticising several other high-cost projects that have failed to meet their revenue targets, he said, "Each Bapex [Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited] vehicle costs Tk5 crore, but the power sector's financial situation is dire. Additionally, the government is paying Tk25,000 crore annually in the energy sector. The Padma rail link, built for nearly Tk40,000 crore, was projected to generate annual revenue of Tk1,400 crore. However, after six months, it has only brought in Tk37 crore."

"These expenditures, carried out under the banner of development, have led to wasted resources. We must stop such unplanned projects to prevent further financial losses," he added.

Highlighting the role of the interim government, the adviser further said, "Unlike previous administrations, the government has the responsibility of more than 1,000 martyrs of the July uprising, over 30,000 injured who are still receiving treatment across the country, and the countless students and citizens who have sacrificed 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, Energy and Mineral Resources Secretary Mohammad Saiful Islam, Additional Police Commissioner Humayun Kabir, Superintendent of Police Raihan Uddin Khan, Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation Chairman Md Amin ul Ahsan, and Major Mahmud of the Army's 24th Infantry Division.

Representatives from government bodies, autonomous organisations, political parties, religious institutions, and student leaders were also present at the event.