Export processing zone to be set up in Bhola: Chief Adviser

The current government is taking necessary steps for the development of isolated islands in Bangladesh, said Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

Noting that a launch ghat has been set up in Dhalchar of Monpura upazila of Bhola district, he said: "At the same time, it has been decided to set up an export processing zone in Bhola district to strengthen it internationally."

He said these things at a meeting on updating fishermen's registration with fishermen in Dhalchar of Monpura upazila of Bhola district on Sunday (February 23) morning.

The Chief Adviser said that a launch ghat pontoon has been inaugurated in the name of national hero Shaheed Riaz, who was killed in the 2024 student-public uprising in Hijla, Barisal. Besides, the process of constructing a fish ghat is underway for the convenience of fishermen in this region.

He said: "We have taken the initiative to launch direct ferry services to various isolated islands including Hatiya with the mainland. The work of constructing roads for the communication system of the char dwellers in Monpura and installing tubewells for drinking water is under process."

"These initiatives are being implemented under the overall supervision of the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Labor and Employment Adviser retired Brigadier General Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, and the Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Farida Akhtar. The current government is committed to the sustainable development of the marginalized communities and islanders," he added.

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar, Shipping and Labor and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain were present at the event.

Organized by the Monpura Upazila Administration and Upazila Fisheries Department, the meeting was chaired by Monpura Upazila Executive Officer Likhon Banik. Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation Chairman (Additional Secretary) Suraiya Akhtar Jahan, officials from various levels of the Ministry of Shipping, fishermen and fishermen representatives of Monpura Upazila were present.