The decision to reopen all closed garment factories for an indefinite period has been taken after discussions among Bangladesh Garments manufacturers and exporters association (BGMEA), workers, labor unions, local political leaders, administration, and industrial police in the relevant areas. This decision was announced on Tuesday (November 14) after a meeting, as reported by BGMEA.
Earlier, on last Sunday (November 12), a declaration was made to shut down all activities of 130 garment factories in the area, ensuring the safety of workers and protection of the factories’ properties for an unspecified period. However, within two days of this announcement, the decision to reopen all factories was made following discussions involving workers, labor leaders, factory owners, and law enforcement.
BGMEA Director Mahiuddin Rubel stated that as the situation gradually normalizes, all closed factories will be reopened. The decision was reached through discussions involving workers, labor leaders, factory owners, and law enforcement.
In a statement addressing the current situation in the garment industry, BGMEA President Faruk Hasan mentioned that, with the cooperation of workers, labor unions, local political leaders, administration, industrial police, and media personnel, the garment industry in all areas of Bangladesh is currently operating in a stable and peaceful environment. Production activities are ongoing in all factories. As of now, there are no reports of dissatisfaction among workers in any factory.
He further mentioned that, in response to BGMEA’s call, workers, labor unions, local political leaders, administration, industrial police, and media personnel in the Ashulia area have expressed their desire for all closed garment factories in Ashulia to resume operations. Workers have assured that if the factories are reopened, they will work diligently. As a result, all closed factories in Ashulia will be reopened on November 15. Additionally, three garment factories in Kashimpur and Konabari areas have already been reopened. Consequently, normal production activities are taking place in all factories in those areas.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan requested law enforcement agencies to ensure the security of all types of industrial establishments, including garment factories. He urged them to take strict measures for the safety of their properties. However, he emphasized the importance of working cautiously to prevent any worker, employee, or owner from falling victim to any fraud or deception in the process.
