Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority-BEZA is constantly working to take the country forward on the path of development and industrialization following the dream of the Father of the Nation.
In the last few decades, Bangladesh has achieved unprecedented development in the world economy and has now become an ’emerging tiger’. Due to its investment-friendly policies, easy availability of manpower and geopolitical reasons – Bangladesh is currently one of the most attractive destinations for investors. The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) has earned confidence from investors of reputed companies around the world, including USA, Japan, India, the Netherlands, China, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Thailand, South Korea and Australia establishing land bank. By far, 97 economic zones have been approved, of which 10 zones have already started commercial production and 29 are currently under development.
However, this economic growth brings with it a heightened demand for water resources, coupled with the consequential generation of wastewater. As stewards of our environment and custodians of our future, it is imperative that we confront these challenges head-on, with innovation, collaboration, and foresight.
Let me inform you in this regard, while BEZA is mandated to establish economic zones, supplying water to investors has become one of the most crucial issues like any other nation. BEZA has developed short, medium, and long-term plans for water supply in economic zones. This also included water planned to be reused from effluent through CETP. Additionally, we would like to establish a desalination plant in the future if required. However, most of the zones such as Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar (BSMSN), Moheshkhali EZ, Sabrang Tourism Park, Chinese Industrial & Economic Zone, and Indian Economic Zone are situated beside the Bay of Bengal poses significant challenges regarding water management. I believe BEZA as well as investors will get a clear understanding of desalination from today’s Water and Wastewater Solutions Conference. Which will help to solve the economic zones’ water problem.
According to the technical study around 1000 MLD (Million Liter per Day) of water will be required to meet the demand of the BSMSN by the year 2040. Initially BEZA has managed to ensure a supply of 50 MLD water through Deep Tube wells & surface water treatment plant and this will persist only in the construction phase. Another 100 MLD water will be supplied from the 2 Water Treatment Plants of 50 MLD each. One Water Treatment Plant is under construction and the project for the second Water Treatment Plant of 50 MLD capacity is being processed. BEZA plans to meet another requirement of 500 MLD of water from the confluence of Meghna-Dakatia River under the project of Chattogram WASA (Govt. water supply body) in two phases (each with 250 MLD). The final intake quantity will be only 0.44% of the total water of Meghna River, which is significantly low. This feasibility study was done by Italy-based consulting firm IQT and UK-based Grant Thornton. The study suggests a tariff rate of about $1 per 1000 litter, which is more than double than the existing water price in Bangladesh and neighboring countries. This estimated cost of pipeline is 70% of total project cost (about 150km distance). We call upon investors (like DoPont) from around the world to come with financially viable ideas for water supply in BSMSN through a pipeline or desalination plant.
Therefore, now, we stand at the crossroads of possibility and responsibility. The advancements in water and wastewater solutions will hopefully offer us unique opportunities to not only mitigate the adverse impacts of industrial activities on our environment but also to foster sustainable development that ensures the well-being of current and future generations.
The theme of collaboration underscores the fundamental principle that no single entity can address these challenges alone. It requires the concerted efforts of different ministries of government, industries, academia, and civil society to develop holistic solutions that are both effective and equitable. Collaboration fosters innovation, encourages knowledge sharing, and amplifies our collective impact.
I would like to call on all the entrepreneurs and conglomerates irrespective of economic zones to cooperate with the government in financing water solutions for industries bringing on board world-famous companies.
As we delve deeper into discussions and deliberations today, let us remain mindful of the urgency of our task. Each drop of water saved, each innovation implemented, and each partnership forged brings us closer to a future where water is not just a resource to be exploited but a legacy to be preserved for generations to come.
In conclusion, I urge each one of us to embrace the spirit of collaboration, to harness the power of innovation, and to commit ourselves wholeheartedly to the cause of advancing water and wastewater solutions in Bangladesh. Together, let us pave the way towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Speech by – Shaikh Yusuf Harun, Senior Secretary and Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA).
