Bogura to get 400-acre industrial park, work may begin in winter: Minister

The government is planning to establish a new industrial park on approximately 400 acres of land in Bogura to meet the growing demand of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Commerce, Industries and Textiles Minister Khondkar Abdul Muktadir said initiatives will be taken to begin development work on the proposed industrial park as early as the upcoming winter season.

The minister made the announcement as the chief guest at an inauguration event organised to mark the assumption of office of the newly elected board of directors of the Bogura Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Saturday.

The minister said Bogura holds the potential to emerge as one of the country's most important centres for industrial and economic development. He noted that there is an opportunity to develop Bogura as a key hub, particularly in the light engineering sector. The government is working to create the necessary infrastructure and an industry-friendly environment to harness this potential.

Khondkar Abdul Muktadir said the existing BSCIC industrial estate in Bogura has already reached full capacity. At the same time, the demand from SME entrepreneurs to set up new industries is increasing. In this context, the government has taken the plan to establish a new BSCIC industrial park on about 400 acres of land. Efforts will be made to expedite the work and begin the initial activities during the next winter season.

The minister stressed increasing productivity and reducing financing costs to enhance the competitiveness of industries. He said it is difficult to run industries and businesses with loans at high interest rates. To remain competitive in the market by reducing production costs, both productivity and efficiency must be increased while also lowering financing costs.

He also said the government is working to ensure easy availability of fuel and power for industrial entrepreneurs, simplify gas connections and create low-cost financing opportunities.

The event, held at the conference hall of the five-star Mominn Hotel and Resort on Saturday afternoon, was inaugurated by Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam. Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives State Minister Mir Shahe Alam was present as a special guest.

Also present at the event were lawmakers from Bogura constituencies: Md Rezaul Karim Badsha (Bogura-6), Golam Mohammad Siraj (Bogura-5), Md Mosharraf Hossain (Bogura-4), Morshed Milton (Bogura-7), and Md Abdul Mohit Talukdar (Bogura-3), along with BSCIC Chairman Benjir Ahmed, Deputy Commissioner Md Toufikur Rahman and Superintendent of Police Mirza Sayem Mahmud.

Welcome address was delivered by Bogura Chamber of Commerce and Industry President M S M Atikur Rahman Badal.