State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam has said that despite growing public concern over the global energy situation, fuel oil supply and reserves in the country remain stable.
He made the remarks on Monday while speaking as the chief guest at a free eye treatment and cataract surgery camp held on the premises of Shibganj Government Pilot High School in Bogra’s Shibganj upazila.
The programme was organised by the Mir Shahe Alam Foundation in collaboration with GUK Eye Hospital.
The minister said there is no reason for panic over fuel oil, adding that supply chains and stock levels are operating normally within the system. However, he noted that it may take a few more days for the situation to fully stabilise.
He further said the government has not increased fuel prices, but is instead importing fuel at higher costs by providing subsidies to ensure uninterrupted supply for the public. He added that government expenditure in the sector is expected to reach around Tk 36,000 crore by June.
Highlighting the role of the private sector, the minister said non-government organisations are also making significant contributions, stressing that it is not possible for the government alone to manage all responsibilities. He also praised relevant private organisations for their cooperation.
He further said a plan has been taken to establish an agro-product processing centre in the Mahasthan and Mokamtala areas, with implementation support from the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation and the Ministry of Agriculture.
Regarding higher education in Bogra, he said the Bogra Science and Technology University will remain in place and is being considered for full development into a comprehensive university under the direction of the Prime Minister. He added that plans are underway to introduce academic programmes in agriculture, engineering and medical sciences at the institution.
