21 more factories at BSMSN to go into production in Nov

Another 21 factories in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar (BSMSN) are set to go into commercial production from November this year.

Prime Minister's Principal Secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah said it while briefing journalists after his visit to the industrial zone in Chattogram, said a press release on Wednesday.

BSS adds: He said, "This industrial city has already ensured a good investment environment by ensuring all the facilities for industrial investment, including gas, electricity, and water. Already five companies have started production."

He informed that the industrial city has already received around US$19 billion investment proposals from local and foreign companies.

"Many of the investors have started working to establish their factories. Around 80 percent of the investors are foreign companies," he added.

"Work was stopped for 3 years during the Covid-19 pandemic. The work has been interrupted several times due to natural calamities," the official said, adding required timeframe would be extended in order to complete the project.

"Land allocation for factories has been cancelled for a major establishment that could not start work on time. The land will be reallocated to new investors who will set up factories," Tofazzel Hossain Miah said.

He also said efforts are being made to relocate the families affected by the construction of the industrial zone.

He said the government is working to ensure their housing and provide employment opportunities in the industrial area.

He also mentioned that the police are taking comprehensive measures to address security concerns for both local residents and the industrial city, including the establishment of a new police station.

Additionally, the matter concerning the jetty is under consideration, he added.

Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (BEZA) Chairman Yusuf Harun, and senior officials of the administration were present.