Dhaka, Nov 23 (UNB) – Energy Adviser Dr Fouzul Kabir Khan has assured that contracts in the power and energy sectors will now be awarded based on merit and efficiency rather than political connections, a shift he believes will foster competition and drive economic growth.

Speaking at a seminar titled “Way of Mitigating Energy Crisis in Industrial Sector,” organised by the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) at a city hotel on Saturday, Dr Khan criticised past practices that favoured politically connected businesses over capable contenders.

“For 15 years, only a select group of businessmen with ties to ministers or the government secured contracts, stifling healthy competition and, in turn, suppressing the economy. This will change now, as private investment is being encouraged, and contracts will be merit-based,” he said.

The seminar, chaired by BCI President Anwar-ul-Alam Chowdhury Parvez, brought together policymakers and industry leaders to discuss the energy crisis hampering industrial growth.

Commerce Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin supported Dr Khan’s vision, highlighting improvements under the current interim government.

“Today, businesses are no longer required to pay extortion fees to secure deals. This transparency should motivate entrepreneurs to innovate and embrace modern technology,” he said, urging stakeholders to seize this window of opportunity.

Industrialists shared grievances about the acute shortage of gas and electricity in hubs like Narayanganj, Savar and Gazipur.

BCI President Parvez revealed alarming statistics, stating that 200 industries shut down between March and September this year due to the energy crisis, with another 300 at risk.

Dr Khan attributed the issues to years of misallocated public investment and mismanagement but expressed optimism about reforms underway. “We must invest in renewable energy and sustainable solutions. Solar power plants can provide a viable alternative for industries,” he urged.

The Adviser also disclosed plans for an open tender to transport 70 million cubic feet of gas from Bhola to Dhaka, emphasising the importance of transparent processes.

Petrobangla Chairman Zanendra Nath Sarker highlighted stable gas supplies until 2030 and encouraged local businesses to explore opportunities in offshore gas exploration through international tenders.

The seminar concluded with calls for industry-wide collaboration to address the energy crisis and a renewed commitment to transparency and competition in awarding contracts.

END/UNB/SH/SAM/1743 hrs