Mobilisation of equipment worth Tk 4.0 billion for implementing different development projects has been delayed due to communication disruption amid coronavirus pandemic.
State Minister for Power and Energy Nasrul Hamid said it on Thursday through a video conference organised to evaluate the development activities of the ADP of the outgoing FY 2019-20.
Mr Hamid also stated that the disruption of mobilisation has negatively impacted the progress of some 32 projects under annual development programme (ADP) as around 56.80 per cent of the works were done until May.
However, he hoped that 85 per cent of the works will be completed within the current fiscal year (FY20) by June 30.
The state minister stressed quick implementation of automation and digitalisation in energy management.
He said the state-run power and energy companies should develop office management software considering architecture and operations of their respective entities.
Nasrul also added that installing trackers with liquefied natural gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) can also reduce accidents significantly.
A master plan on smooth functioning of energy management is a time-bound necessity, he said.
The prospects of operating the energy companies under the Companies Act can also be considered, he added.
Moreover, Mr Hamid suggested that efficient and professional people should be included in Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Ltd (Bapex) board.
The virtual meeting was attended by EMRD Senior Secretary Md Anisur Rahman, Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation Chairman Md Shamsur Rahman and Petrobangla Chairman ABM Abdul Fattah, among others.
