A group of intellectuals have been opposing construction of a power plant at Rampal, which is 14 kilometres away from the mangrove forest Sundarbans. They have been pleading that the plant would jeopardize the Sundarbans which is not true at all. The power that will be generated from the plant will be consumed in Bangladesh where scarcity of power has been continuing for years together. Electricity is an prerequisite for economic development. Bangladesh is a developing country and it needs power to pursue its development activities.
In today's world nearly 50 per cent of required electricity is generated from coal. Since Bangladesh needs power, it cannot waste such an opportunity and sacrifice its development pursuit for the sake of so-called environment. About one-fourth of our population is still below the poverty line. It needs to enhance its growth for the economic well-being of the people. The south-west part of Bangladesh is neglected and undeveloped compared to Dhaka and Chittagong regions. Rampal power plant will contribute to creating an environment to develop this part of the country. I like to urge upon the persons who are opposing the power plant at Rampal to refrain from their movement and co-operate with the joint venture company undertaking the project.
Md. Ashraf Hossain
120, Bashabo, Dhaka-1214.
