Hasina-Manmahon summit in Bangladesh promised so much but delivered too little. Impregnated hopes turned of reaching some milestone agreement into dry despair. Several months of sincere efforts of so many persons of two countries were blown with the winds. Teesta River sharing high drama culminated into tragedy.

Consequently transit agreement was not signed, power import deal or Joint Venture Coal fired power plant development initiative could not be inked, and even critical border issues remained unresolved. Hectic parleys at the last stage and efforts of many over 20 months to make the event a mega success hit quick sand primarily due to unexplainable stubborn attitude of Chief Minister Mamota Banerjee of West Bengal. For her last minute turn around very crucial Teesta Water sharing agreement signing was put on hold. Bangladesh was at least bold enough in not agreeing to sign Transit deal. Other issues like Power import deal and imported coal based power plant under NTPC-PDB joint are still in the womb of uncertainties. Some protocols, some MOUs and one framework agreement covering many aspects of co-operation were signed. All these however failed to perhaps please both India and Bangladesh government. There will be serious soul searching in both sides to find out what went wrong? Who stabbed the noble initiatives on the back? Indian Prime Minister has sounded frustrated for not being able to bring his Chief Minister of West Bengal on the discussion table for signing what could be a historic Water sharing agreement. If we analyze neutrally development of events harmed Indian image more than Bangladesh. World Communities through active media knows it was Indians failure which led to finally sign agreed water sharing treaty for their internal reasons. Indians perhaps lost a golden opportunity to earn trust and respect of Bangladeshi nation. The mistrust and disbelief among two SAARC neighbors continued. Many now will seriously doubt about sincerity of Indian Government for agreeing to ensure the legitimate right of Bangladesh as lower riparian country over the water of common international Rivers. Bangladeshis will not easily believe on Indian Prime Ministers repeated assurances that nothing that harms Bangladesh will be done at Tipaimukh and other places to divert river water on the upstream. Here are some details of the Agreements and MOUs.

Protocol to the 1974 Boundary Agreement

Foreign ministers of India and Bangladesh signed on the protocol to address the outstanding land boundaries issues and provide final settlement to land boundary issues which will come under the agreed protocol are;

a)      Undemarcated land boundary at Daikhata -56 [West Bengal]. Muhuri River-Belonia [Tripura] and Dumabri[Assam].

b)      Enclaves.

c)      Adverse possessions.

The undemarcated boundary has already been demarcated. The status of 111 Indian Enclaves [Population of 37,334] and 51 Bangladeshi Enclaves [population of 14,215] have been addressed. The issues of adversely possessed land along Indo-Bangla border in West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya and Assam has also been mutually finalized. This protocol if ultimately respected to the letters by both parties will bring significant change in the peaceful neighborly relation.

Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development:

In this modern age it is almost impossible for individual countries to address all issues of its citizens on its own .Countries in different regions are addressing many issues of economic development, resources exploitation, poverty alleviation efforts through bilateral and multilateral collaboration . Such a framework agreement was conceptualized during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to India in 2010. It was agreed at that time that a comprehensive framework of cooperation for would be put in place covering mutually shared visions. The signed Framework agreement provides the Template for the future cooperation.

Addendum to the MOU between India and Bangladesh to facilitate Overland Transit Traffic between Bangladesh and Nepal:

The MOU would facilitate rail transit to/from Bangladesh and Nepal using the Rohanpoor-Singhabad route .It would also facilitate Rail Transit between Bangladesh and Nepal using Indian Territory through Radhikapoor-Birol line after Bangladesh Coverts its railway line in the section to Broad-gauge.

MOU on Conservation of Sundarban:

An initial 5 year duration MOU was signed for Sundarban for cooperation in areas of conserving biodiversity, joint management of resources, and livelihood generation for poverty alleviation, cataloguing of local flora and fauna and studying the impacts of climate change. A working group to be set up would be responsible for implementation of objectives envisioned in the MOU.

MOU for Conservation of Royal Bengal Tigers of Sundarban:

MOU for Conservation of the Royal Bengal Tigers of Sundarban would provide bilateral cooperation in undertaking scientific research, knowledge sharing and patrolling of Sundarban Waterways on their respective sides to prevent poaching or smuggling of derivatives from wildlife and bilateral initiatives to ensure the survival and conservation of the royal Bengal Tigers in the unique ecosystem of the Sundarbans.

MOU on the Cooperation in the field of Renewable Energy:

• The MOU aims to establish the basis for a Cooperative institutional relationship to encourage and promote technical, bilateral cooperation in the areas of Solar, wind and Bio Energy on the basis of mutual benefit, equality and reciprocity. In addition to above the following MOUs were also signed.
• MOU has cooperation in the field of fisheries.
• MOU, on Educational cooperation between Jawaharlal Nehru University and the Dhaka University.
• MOU on Cooperation between Doordarshan [DD] and Bangladesh Television [BTV].
• MOU between the National Institute of Fashion Technology [NIFT] New Delhi and BGMEA Institute Of Fashion Technology[ BIFT] .

There is no semblance of doubt that the Summit failed to achieve its billing. Tessta water sharing agreement, transit and power trading were three major issues. But mainly due to inexcusable, turnaround of Chief Minister of West Bengal put paid to efforts of many in reaching a historic agreement. Bangladesh had reasons in not agreeing to sign transit agreement. We can commend the courage and determination of Bangladesh in saying no to major neighbor India. We wonder how Chief Minister of a state could overturn the well conceived decision of Central Government of India. India has lost a glorious opportunity to achieve their long cherished plan of getting opportunity of using Chittagong and Mongla port. Bangladesh must now critically evaluate all its pains and gains that would arise from allowing India transit facilities. We cannot be extra gracious to a neighbor which does not hesitate to illegitimately divert the water of common rivers on the upstream to cause desertification of Bangladesh. West Bengal Chief Minister will not be Welcome in Bangladesh until she realizes what damage she has done to the bilateral friendly relation. Her action has only extended the mistrust and disbelief among people of Bangladesh and India.

Indian Prime Minister in a speech at Dhaka University also recorded his frustration for not being able to conclude water sharing treaty. He once again reiterated his firm conviction about not doing anything at Tipaimukh which may harm Bangladesh. The Power trading will have to happen sooner or later once the connectivity is made. We are least bothered about it. In future Bangladesh may achieve surplus power generation to export to India as India’s need of power is much more and the deficit is growing much faster. Bangladesh may not need setting up of power plants based on imported coal if it explores its own substantial high quality coal.

None in Bangladesh has got anything to be too frustrated. Bangladesh has lost none but Indians lost many. Chief Minister of West Bengal has dented the image of Indian Government to world community challenging the decision of Central Government which turned the table on Tessta Water Sharing treaty .Bangladesh Government deserves credit for not agreeing to sign transit treaty .Signing of some MOU and Protocols on important issues are also no mean achievement. One hopes that the process will continue for the greater benefit of the people of the region.

India is the lone emerging world power in the SAARC region. Good friendly neighborly relation based mutual trust and respect of sovereign equality is extremely essential for peaceful coexistence for all nations of South Asian countries. Bangladesh and India have some irritants, some issues which soured their relation since the 15^th August 1975 – the black day in the life of Bangladeshi nation and history. Misguided military rulers seizing power through backdoor and polluting politics with money and muscle; and thriving on cheap anti Indian sentiment back pedaled the Bangladeshi nation. Anti Liberation forces were rehabilitated, religion was used as way to exploit people and unnecessary issues were harbored causing extreme miseries for the people of Bangladesh. On the other hand imprudent Indian beauracrats and some communal Indian politicians also misguided Indian policy makers in depriving Bangladesh from some legitimate rights. Consequently several issues like water sharing, boundary disputes [Land and Maritime] and trade imbalances caused profuse bleeding of bilateral relations. It is really unfortunate that majority of Bangladeshis possess genuine apprehension about Indian attitude towards Bangladesh while Indians in 1971 made such massive contribution for the liberation of Bangladesh. We hope Indian policy makers could realize what Bangladesh wants and what is the way forward to normalize the relations.

Water Sharing: Bangladesh economy is agro based and our agriculture is largely dependent on supply of water throughout the year in major rivers and tributaries. Almost all of our rivers either originate from India or flows through India before entering Bangladesh and flows across Bangladesh before flowing into the Bay of Bengal. Due to unilateral Indian actions depriving Bangladesh of its lower riparian right many such rivers have almost died and rest are in the process of extinction. There is Joint River Commission (JRC) and the commission sits in regular meetings. But in the last 40 years since independence other than Ganges water sharing agreement signed during last term of Awami League led government sharing of other river waters could not be agreed. We hope that India and Bangladesh could realize the issues and challenges. In the recent past meetings between Bangladesh and India focused on Dam and barrages at Tipaimukh. Bangladeshi parliamentary delegation headed by veteran politician Abdur Razzak visited Tipaimukh and met responsible Indian ministers and policy makers. None other than Indian PM assured that anything- harms Bangladesh will not be done by India at Tipaimukh. Bangladeshis now want clear commitment about the assurance of Indian Prime Minister. We do not want our Surma, Kushiara; Manu Rivers die from Indian one-sided action at Tipaimukh. The equitable sharing of Teesta River water is another major irritant. We hope that a water sharing agreement of Teesta River based on equality will be settled during the ensuing visit of Indian PM. We have heard that sharing of Feni River water is also included as a part of the package. We hope Bangladesh will not be asked to sacrifice its legitimate right in any such agreement.

Boundary Disputes: Ever since the partition of India in 1947, some disputes in marking of borders between India and Pakistan in eastern region, existed. Mujib–Indira agreement vowed to resolve these after emergence of Bangladesh in 1971. Unfortunately no government of India and Bangladesh made sincere efforts to resolve these disputes. Bangladesh and India must exchange the enclaves on the basis of Mujib–Indira agreement. Both India and Bangladesh possess some lands belong to other. We hope on the basis of credible survey such lands will be exchanged. It is also expected that a meaningful agreement to this effect with specific timeline and action plan will be included in the agreement.

Bangladesh and India have entered into arbitration on maritime boundary disputes in the Bay of Bengal. India is exploring for Petroleum resources in the Bay of Bengal for several years but as soon as Bangladesh planned to explore in its own deep water Indians vehemently objected. Bangladesh had to enter into arbitration due to stubborn attitudes of India in resolving this issue through bilateral discussions while the matter may be resolved through arbitration. But it may take several years. If both party respect international norms there are still opportunity to resolve it through bilateral discussion or this will remain an apple of discord for several years. We hope summit meeting will reach some positive decisions on this matter.

Exchanging Criminals and Combating Crimes:

For several years now criminals and terrorists of one country are finding safe haven in other country and are carrying out their crimes through their planted agents. Two countries’ must make a fresh vow of not sheltering any such criminals and let any place of their land to be used for carrying out subversive activities against others. In the recent past Bangladesh government made crack down on Indian insurgents inside Bangladesh and pushed back several such separatists. Bangladesh government is working on a trial of suspects involved in a massive arms haul through Bangladesh for Indian separatists. But India has so far failed to reciprocate the gesture. Many noted Bangladeshi terrorists including the killers of Bangabandhu, the father of nation, are reportedly hiding in India. One hopes that India will guarantee that it will make everything possible in not letting anyone do any subversive activities sheltering in India.

Border Killings:

Despite serious reservations of Bangladeshi Indian Border security force continues to kill and torture innocent Bangladeshis at the border. Senior Indian policy makers made repeated assurances. But that has not worked so far. Indian economy is in no way doing better than Bangladesh that people will move to India for job seeking. Only smugglers may try to go across. But why BSF should resort to killings? Setting up of barbed wire fencing along the border is disgrace for a might neighbor. Bangladesh can never dream of an armed confrontation with India. India started the process of mistrust and disbelief the day it started setting up barbed wire fencing. We hope India will realize these mistakes. Barbed wire fences will remain an irritant in India Bangladesh relation especially when it is seeking transit across Bangladesh to link its eastern and western region.

Transit and Regional Connectivity:

Bangladesh has genuine concern here

a)    Many Bangladeshis believe that India may try to transport military hard ware’s using this transit routes to combat insurgencies which may make Bangladesh exposed to Indian separatists groups active in Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram.

b)    Bangladeshi roads and highways, railways and waterways, ports are far from ready to absorb massive flow of transit traffic. It will take several years and huge investment to handle transit traffic. There must be credible feasibility study with transparent benefit cost ratio before bringing in transit into play. Present Bangladesh road infrastructure is even not suitable enough for our own needs. Situation of railway is even worse. Bangladeshi rivers lack navigability in all season primarily due to Indian unilateral actions of withdrawing and diverting water on the upstream.

c)    Transit tariff has not yet been decided. Let Bangladesh create infrastructure to handle additional traffic load emanating from regional connectivity. Let all these costs get included in the feasibility study. If our earnings through job creation and tariff make the proposition profitable we believe no one will object to Bangladesh being part of regional connectivity.

d)    Bangladesh is supposed to have unhindered connectivity with Nepal and Bhutan through Indian Territory. Are we getting it? Can Nepalese and Bhutanese trucks carrying commodities enter Bangladesh without hustles through Indian Territory?

All the above issues must be positively resolved before entering into or renewing any transit treaty with India.

Trade Imbalance:

Bangladesh suffers from huge trade imbalance with India. Indian goods of any quality, good or bad- enter Bangladesh legally or illegally, almost uninterrupted. There are no questions of quality control. But Bangladeshi trade commodities have to undergo various tariff and non tariff barriers. Examples are dirty polluting Indian coal which even India does not use is pushed into Bangladesh and Bangladesh unfortunately accepts the high sulfur and high ash coal. Pro Indian Environmentalists and agitators find dirty Indian Coal more acceptable than allowing economic mining of own superior quality coal. Government of Bangladesh also remains silent. On the other hand our cement, our pharmaceuticals, Rahimafrooz batteries have to face various barriers in entering Indian market. We hope summit meeting will address all these matters.

It is very encouraging that present government of Bangladesh has taken historic initiative to resolve all outstanding issues with India. It is for the mutual interests of both the countries that all issues are resolved without further delay for peaceful coexistence. But all mistrusts and confusions must be done away with through mutual respect of sovereign equality. Bangladesh must come out of its inferiority complex and Indians must abandon its ‘take all and share nothing’ attitude. Let the visit of PM Dr. Manmohan usher a new era in Indo-Bangla relations. Let it set the trend of greater integration of SAARC region. A peaceful SAARC region is so essential for the continued economic development and poverty alleviation of billions of helpless people of the region. All professionals have meeting of minds. It only needs political will and strong fellow feeling at the summit level to make things happen. We welcome Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to Bangladesh with lots of hope and ambitions.

The honesty and integrity of the British media has come under serious scrutiny in the recent past. Australian Media Tycoon Rupert Murdoch has been compelled to close down his “News of the World” when charged for its unholy methods of tarnishing the image of leading personalities and smear nations. Rupert Murdoch had to appear before a parliamentary probe committee and regret for the scam. Almost at the same time Another British media “The Economist” has published has carried a highly controversial report questioning India- Bangladesh relation, the emergence of Bangladesh, the genocide by Pakistan occupation army in 1971and the trial process of the identified War Criminals of 1971.

The report without any credible evidence has brought out an allegation that Indian Government sponsored the Awami League with money and advice to win the 2008 elections. Congress is in Indian state power, and there is a historic link between the Congrees and Awami League based on good wish or even blessings as both champion democracy. But how can a leading international media mention that Indian Government provided monetary support to Awami League? Do they have any credible evidence? Neutral observers and world media unanimously acclaimed the free, fair and transparent election of 2008 . Even no major objection was raised by any of the opponents. But how after two and half years later “The Ecomonist” could bring up such a serious allegation? This report has definitely undermined and in fact embarrassed both India and Bangladesh. The countries have every right to question validity and authenticity of the report. This is more pertinent at this moment since two friendly SAARC neighbors after years of mistrust and disbelief have started positive actions to resolved several outstanding issues – water sharing , enclave exchange, joint actions against terrorists, boundary disputes resolution, regional connectivity , trade rationalization . Some issues were fundamentally agreed during Bangladesh PMs Visit to India and most of the others are at advanced stage for meeting of minds of the highest level at the upcoming summit of two PMs in Dhaka in September 2011.

In Bangladesh there is a group of people who in everything smells some Indian fish .This group though do not hesitate to use Indian Garments, go for shopping to India or get medical treatment to India when required. They do not object to use dirty polluting Indian coal but they raise hue and cry when Government takes imitative to explore own sweet coal or explore for petroleum in the offshore. This group sure will be encouraged by such yellow journalism of “The Economist.
Economist report questioned visit of Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi’s visit to Dhaka in a satirical manner. Sonia was in Dhaka on invitation of PM Hasina to attend an international seminar on Autistics Children and to receive the highest civilian award [Posthumous] on behalf of Late Indira Gandhi for her motherly contribution during the liberation war. There cannot be any question if the chief of the two ruling political parties share ideas and opinions on the regional politics and government affairs anytime anywhere.

The report also questioned the crackdown of militant groups and terrorists by Bangladesh Government. The section of the report may be quoted here:

Ever since 2008, when the Awami League, helped by bags of Indian cash and advice, triumphed in general elections in Bangladesh, relations with India have blossomed. To Indian delight, Bangladesh has cracked down on extremists with ties to Pakistan or India’s home-grown terrorist group, the Indian Mujahideen, as well as on vociferous Islamist (and anti-Indian) politicians in the country. India feels that bit safer.

We will be extremely pleased if Economist can provide the credible evidence of the bag of cash that it is alleging to have been provided by Indian Government . If not Economist owe an apology to both India and Bangladesh.

From 2002 – 2006 Bangladesh became safe haven of terrorists. Finance Minister SAMS Kibria, popular MP Ahsanullah Master was killed by grenade attacks. Attacks were carried out against British High Commissioner in Bangladesh, Mayor of Sylhet, and MP Suranjit Sen Gupta. Finally terrorist under state sponsorship killed several Awami Leaguers including wife of Bangladesh President in a carnage and mayhem in front of Awami League Central office at the heart of the capital city. The terrorists became so organized that they could carry out simultaneous grenade explosion in 64 places of the country at the same time. People were killed at court buildings, cinema hall. It was alleged that some country’s intelligence agency unfriendly to both Bangladeshi progressive force and India setting up safe training shelter within Bangladesh trained terrorists and provided deadly weapons to carry out subversive activities within Bangladesh and India. A huge arm haul was confiscated at CUFL Jetty of Chittagong which was allegedly transited through Bangladesh for a separatist group of India. Present government very courageously took appropriate actions against the group. Government has also initiated actions to authentically probe all acts of terrorism of the past. Instead of admiring governments efforts Economist report has unfortunately criticized the admirable Bangladesh action.

The saddest part of the report is that it questioned the Bangladeshi initiative of conducting trials of identified war criminals. There can be any or many difference of opinion about the process of conducting the trials. But it is a long term legitimate demand of the Bangladeshis to try and punish the collaborators of Pakistan Army in carrying out genocide, rape, looting and arsening in 1971. Economist has unfortunately advocated for the alleged criminals under custody. The intent and purpose of the report is well understood.

The report also questioned about various outstanding bilateral issues resolution process. It has questioned regional connectivity. We cannot deny our geographical reality. We are surrounded by India from 2.75 sides. Any regional connectivity will benefit all nations. If India can connect its major regions with neglected Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura through it how it harms Bangladesh? Why we are apprehensive that India will transport Army or Military gazettes through the corridor? This connectivity is for trade and commerce only. However, we are not fully aware about the details of the regional connectivity. It will not be wise to talk about it at this stage.

In conclusion we like to request the editor of “The Economist “ to clarify the issues raised in the report and address the Bangladesh response .If such kind of reports are regulary published who knows some day it may have to embrace the same fate as Rupert Murdoch’s “ The News of the World”.

Khaleda Zia is the leader of the opposition in the parliament. As elected MP she is enjoying all facilities and privileges as the member of the parliament. She has abstained from Parliament and did not join the recent discussions and dialogues on the constitution amendment. She has declared actions for scrapping constitution provision of care taker government following the verdict of Supreme Court declaring it illegal. So her statement favoring continuation of Care Taker Government directly goes against highest court verdict. Any sensible citizen has legal and constitutional right to sue her for her statement. Khaleda perhaps forgot that her alliance had landslide disaster in election held under care taker government. In recent times in no election under present EU there have been any credible allegations of state interference. So her statement favoring CTG and her declaration of no election under EU is unconstitutional. BNP or any party may or may not participate in any or many elections. But in reality BNP does not have organizational strength to oppose any election.

Energy crisis, power and water crisis are fall out of Khaleda’s own failures. In her last term she did nothing to meet emerging massive deficits. The depth and diversity of the crisis is so acute that it is taking more than expected time. Khaleda if she is peoples leader must suggest how to improve the situation .Instead she has let out her B and C teams to oppose government initiatives to explore and exploit own resources.

Flying in and out of Shahjalal International Airport has now become risky for unplanned city growth. A carefully planned international airport at Suitable place can turn Bangladesh an important hub of global air links. Why Khaleda has to oppose the initiative for a new modern International Airport?

Why she should oppose special economic Zone in Sylhet if it creates massive job opportunity and ease massive trade imbalance with India?

Her declaration for not pursuing any further hartal type destructive program has not emanated from her love of people. She found that recent hartals apart from creating nuisances brought no mileage for her evil design. People not only responded but also resisted. Senior party leaders refused to join street agitations during hartal. But in any case we welcome her statement and hope that she remains true to it.

Present government has been voted to power through fair, free and credible general election for 5 years term . Despite some failures it is trying relentless to reconstruct Bangladesh that Khaleda government left behind in 1996. No one can bring any Khaleda Government type corruption against any. Government has initiated many milestone projects in Energy, Communication and other sectors. Relation with different countries including neighbors has started to improve. Many disputed issues with India are on the advanced stage of getting resolved. Teesta river water sharing treaty. Land boundary demarcation and exchange of enclaves may happen soon. India, Nepal, Bhutan may use Bangladesh ports. Several initiatives have been taken to ease grid locks in Dhaka and Chittagong.

Implementation of Dream Padma Bridge will start soon. Why leader of the opposition instead of raising her disapproval in the parliament is behaving like paper tiger on the street? Can she tell what Bangladesh looses in allowing transit for India through Bangladesh? Why Bangladesh must not utilize the opportunity of gaining economically from it? Why Khaleda is not placing her proposal for resolving issues with India in the parliament?

Present Government has advanced slowly but steadily on the trial process of criminals against humanity. It has surfaced involvement of her two sons in money siphoning, involvement of her eldest son in August 21 massacre. People understand her heart burning for protecting the corrupt syndicates, plotters and masterminds of terrorist activities of her time. But people fail to understand what she meant for upstaging a democratically elected government through Arab Awakening type movement.

Perhaps the little informed leader does not know Arab Awakening is staged against corrupt autocrat regimes which very cruelly are trying to suppress spontaneous people’s movement. When her own son’s area alleged in corrupt, money laundering and abetting killers and terrorists how she can lead any such movement against still a very popular government?

Rather people must join movement to bring back all criminals and corrupt element that have fled from Bangladesh after carrying out massive corruptions and siphoning off people’s money. People must rally around initiatives to try War criminals and masterminds of terrorist activities killing innocent people.

Khaleda must thank present government that if after acting like a novice and spreading hatred and venom against ruling government she is not being put behind the bar for voicing disapprovals of highest court verdict. She is better advised to join parliament and try to keep government honest through honest objective criticism. She must also come up with better alternative proposals in the parliament and wait till next general election for taking peoples verdict.

India must realize that irrespective of size and economic situation Bangladesh and India are sovereign equal and matters must be dealt with on the basis of sovereign equality. Everything must be looked upon on mutual win- win basis. No party must have take all and share nothing attitude.

Bangladesh Needs Equitable Share of Water:

The river based agro economy of Bangladesh desperately needs equitable share of water through all common rivers. Indian actions of unilateral withdrawal of water in some common rivers have initiated desertification in huge areas of Bangladesh. During the ensuing summit meaningful progress must be achieved on water sharing. Bangladesh must be ensured of its legitimate right in accordance with international norms as lower riparian country. We hope Teesta Water sharing agreement will be inked during the summit. There must be unconditional assurance by India to honor all signed Indian treaty and agreements on water sharing. India must not take any project on the upstream which may harm Bangladesh on the downstream.

Maritime and Land Boundary Disputes must be resolved:

It is a pity that several issues relating to boundary disputes in land and water remains unresolved for 40 years. Bangladesh will love to see complete implementation of Mujib-Indira treaty on exchange of border Enclaves. There must be authentic survey of boundary demarcation and India must not resort to barbed wire fencing as Bangladesh government in the meantime done more than enough to crack down on all hide outs of Indian insurgents inside Bangladesh territory. India must assure Bangladesh and practically implement that no innocent Bangladeshi is killed along the border by BSF. The maritime boundary disputes must also be attempted to resolve on the basis of sincere bilateral discussions. Petroleum resources underground cannot be bounded by physical boundaries. If the maritime boundary demarcations are agreed in accordance with International law there may be still some overlaps of underground resources. These can be exploited on the basis of Joint Development agreement in practice in many countries-Indonesia- Malaysia, Malaysia-Thailand, Netherlands –Germany.

Cross Border Trading of Energy:

It is great that after several years of discussions India and Bangladesh have started implementation of power grid connectivity. But we understand the power trading is stuck on some issues of power tariff. The power Grid connectivity between India and Bangladesh must give Bangladesh access to Hydropower from Nepal and Bhutan. 4 Countries must make meaningful progress in sharing power according to their needs. Manmahon- Hasina summit must set the strong the basis for such power trading. Tariff and other technical and non technical issues which barricades power trading must be honestly resolved.

Exchange of Criminals and Prisoners:

Present Bangladesh government has done a lot in crashing all militant hide outs from inside Bangladesh territory. No group or individuals are now allowed to use Bangladesh territory to work against Bangladesh and neighbors. Bangladesh also arrested or pushed back some identified Indian insurgents. But several top Bangladeshis terrorists are carrying out operation from inside India. Indian government must sincerely try to arrest them and hand over to Bangladesh. Some identified criminals against whom there are arrest warrant are allegedly hiding in India. Some are in Indian Jails. They should be returned. In this context if any treaty or protocol needs to be signed that must be inked.

Trading:

To balance huge trade imbalance India must withdraw all tariff and non tariff barriers those are impeding entry of Bangladeshi export commodities into India. In any bilateral talks some lists are exchanged and parties agree to act upon it. But in actual practice very little are achieved. Not only border hats Bangladesh needs zero tariff or minimum tariff on its goods entering India. Bangladesh has agreed to provide transit to India to travel across from East to west [Tripura, Meghalaya – West Bengal. In future India may use like Bhutan, Nepal, China and Myanmar Bangladeshi ports for their exports and imports. But in exchange Bangladesh must get free trading rights with 7 sisters around Bangladesh, unhindered access for trading Nepal and Bhutan.
India must take actions in its border to stop free entry of drugs and narcotics from their part into Bangladesh and BGD to stop this nuisance.

Friendly Relation must be strengthened:

Bangladeshis have no particular reason to have Indian allergy excepting a very limited group of fundamentalists. But many Bangladeshis do not like big brotherly attitudes of a section of Indian beauracrats – the spoilers. Many great initiatives in the past to normalize relations have been spoiled for this. Some great initiatives taken during Bangladesh PM’s visit to India could not make meaningful progress for bureaucratic attitude. When there are political commitments of highest level beauracrats must not create impediments.

Let the visit of Indian PM to Bangladesh and the ensuing Summit opens the avenues of several Win- Win breakthroughs of mutual relations. It is only through mutual co –operation respecting sovereign equality two important SAARC countries can make giant strides towards economic development and poverty alleviation. Let Bangladesh-India be trend setters in the South Asian region.

One must agree that the present government inherited an almost failed country when it won election as grand alliance in end 2008. Wide spread corruption , sponsored terrorism, almost nonfunctional power and energy sector, soaring price of essential, unbearable grid locks and deteriorating law and order situation. Grand alliance in its election pledge promised to change these all, pledged to create digital Bangladesh, pledged to try War Criminals , stood rock solid against corruption. In end December 2010 after spending two years almost 40% of its time in office they made some genuine progress in some areas and stalled deterioration in others. Let us try to make some honest assessment of the pains and gains.

Government took over in Early January 2009. The time coincided with high season of intensive irrigation .Electricity demand usually reach peak at that time. One must give credit to the government that despite serious deficit of power in national grid new government in 2009 handled irrigation load very professionally True urban people had some obvious pains but farmers got power and diesel for irrigation, fertilizer and seeds at affordable costs and with relative ease to produce bumper crops. Government of grand alliance must deserve thanks for that. Government promised to remedy energy crisis and fuel supply crisis within short time as they announced about extensive home work to deal with the crisis. Government could take positive decisions of extracting own coal and petroleum resources in much more professional manner. It is not that government did not have good intentions. But due to poor vision and inefficient management most of the government initiatives to improve power and energy sector situation fell flat. After two years in end 2010 nation is experiencing another massive power and gas crisis. But nation must have patience also. Some initiatives taken for augmenting gas supply and add more power may start giving positive impacts by end 2011.

Failures to start extraction of own coal is a major failure. Initiatives for LNG and Coal import are two major misguided initiatives. Very soon both these will prove not feasible. But valuable time is wasted in the process. Government will do much better to start extracting own coal under strict monitoring of social and environmental impacts management. Affected community must be properly rehabilitated. Mine mouth coal power generation must be our main objective now to address the massive power crunch, energy crisis.

Law and order situation may not be the most ideal .But it is definitely much improved than what it used to be at the time of BNP-Jamat led 4 party alliance. There is no state sponsorship of organized terrorism. Opposition can carry out their political parleys in much safer ways. No terrorists hurl deadly grenades on opposition meetings. No MPs of the opposition are killed brutally. Terrorist cannot carry out simultaneous grenade attacks in several places. Law and order situation has definitely improved a great deal. But whether or not it improved to expected level is a matter of assessment. Think of brutal incidents at Peelkhana BDR Headquarter within a month of new Government rule. Think how the impact was contained.. The trial of the killers has started. Some quarter staying at comfort made prophecies that Government could be more aggressive. But considering the vulnerability of thickly populated BDR Complex and surroundings and possible massive impacts of hurried actions PM Hasina took the best possible actions that any state leader of prudence could take. But we lost several bright army officers .We got many widows and many orphans. We hope the killers and conspirators will be punished. We hope such incidents in future will not happen again.

The continued intolerable excesses of Student, youth and labor fronts of ruling party and government failure to contain these are a major failure. It may not be denied that in Bangladesh culture trouble makers always seek safe haven in ruling party. Fortune seekers always change colors. There may be infiltration of Shibir in Student league. But why not weed them out? Why Student politics cannot be left to genuine students only? Why Student unions in academic institutions are not elected democratically? Failure to control its own aggressive fronts is a major failure of of the government. We hope PM will utilize her senior party leaders [Now in hibernation] to carry out cleansing of her own party fronts soon. Nation wants to see student politics regain its glorious past as soon as possible.

Yet Government could complete first round of trial of Bangabandhu killers and could initiate process of long expected trials of War Criminals. Nation must remain united for this. The trial process must be fair, open and neutral and completed as soon as possible.

Education policy based on ideals of liberation war is a major achievement. Distributing books at the very start of academic session is also a major achievement. Education minister and ministry must get accolade for that. Nation must repulse the conspiracy of a certain identified quarter against education policy.

Positive decision on transit and normalization of relation with major neighbors India is a major gain. Bangladesh surrounded from 2.8 sides by huge India must gain from its geological location. Letting India, Nepal , Bhutan, China and Myanmar use our ports will advance Bangladesh economy tremendously. A small country like Bangladesh can make massive gains through exploiting its proximity to two massive economic giants India and China and balancing its relation with both.

Commencement of Pallasy Jatrabari Flyover, advancement of Elevated Express Highway. Positive developments Historic Padma Bridge, 4 lanes Dhaka –Chittagong Highway are milestone achievements. One hopes that all these will be implemented within the tenure of the present Government. It will be great if works of Modern Bangabandhu International Airport and Deep Sea port can commence within the tenure of the government. There have been somre allegations against Communication ministry for non-transparency. Government must make all its actions transparent. All major decision must be taken in a fair and proper manner. Nation must be made aware through parliament.
Government appears a little panicked in dealing with opposition. Grand alliance having massive peoples mandate must be most tolerant to opposition thoughts and criticism. Khaleda Zia issue of Cantonment board house could be handled without giving BNP opportunity to dramatize it. Similarly arrest of suspected war criminal Salahuddin Qauder Chowdhury could be done ion a much professional manner.

Government handling of Massive Ulfa Arms Haul in Chittagong must be handled more carefully. Every state has own strategy to suit situation and circumstances. We must be very careful in exposing state defense strategy. This issue and August 21 st man slaughtering case must be dealt with very carefully. If previous government hierarchy are really involved they must be brought to justice without trying to gain political mileage here.

But anyway despite various challenges and ongoing crisis deliberately created by vested interest government made several milestone achievement. Government must handle Energy- power crisis, Grid locks, eve teasing and Student front avalanche, Price spiral in more professional manner. Trial of war criminals and other major crimes must be done in fair and neutral manner. We hope by end 2011 nation can start breathing freely and really can witness several positives. Good luck Bangbandhu daughter PM Sheikh Hasina and her mahajote Government in New Year 2011.

In Bangladesh there is no such instance of mid-term election excepting in one term when khaleda was forced to step out within few months of a failed election. The present overall situation of the country although not ideal is much better than what it used to be during 2002-2006.Terrorists are not carrying out grenade attack in the opposition rallies killing innocent people, main stream opposition leaders are not killed by grenades or gunned down . Whatever political harassment or incidents are happening in isolation may also be the creation of a particular vested quarter which is trying to destabilize the government

Just because Khaleda is the widow of a  Army Chief turned President killed by a group of disgruntled group of Army Officers cannotlegalize her life term claim on government property.On the backdrop of governments continued efforts for  trying War Criminals and nab all conspirators of several terrorists’ activities in the past such demand will only create confusion and contradictions.. There is no genuine reason to demand midterm election .If Khaleda has strong reasons she should go to parliament and move a motion of non-confidence against the government. Mere lip service and hue and cry may create some ripples and will go with the wind.

Traffic congestions and Energy Crisis are two issues which have reached such a crisis stage that unless s there are concerted national efforts these may not be success ‘fully confronted or mitigated in short time. Dhaka and some major cities like Chittagong have grown ion all dimensions without any definite city planning. Canals and waterways in and around the cities have been cruelly encroached. Without creating necessary roads and communication infrastructuresthousandsonf transports have been allowed to ply on the city roads. Without creating necessary utility infrastructures many times more than installed capacity demands have been created for water, gas, power and sewerage facilities. All previous government hasmiserably failed to make proper planning and effective implementation .It will be unkind to blame the present government square for all the crisis and issues.

Opposition leader is well advised to respond positively for dialogues with government on major national issues and use parliament as the main place for debate. Opposition has failed so far to elect deputy leader .Most of failed ex ministers and MP of BNP ispressuring Khaleda not to join parliament. They have also ill advised Khaleda to take hard stance on the cantonment house issue.

The cantonment house is a state property. Can President or any person allot a property to any person? Just that someone served as Army Chief for some yearscannot automatically legitimize her claim on that property. There has been some  other Army Chiefs before and after General Zia There had been some other valiant freedom fighters , liberation front commanders .Some of them were killed equally cruelly .Khaled Musharraf , Manzoor. Taher, Huda, Haidar had greater contributions. What their widows got from the state? Bangabandhu was the founding father; four national leaders killed in jail were among the leading architect of Bangladesh. What their orphan children got from the state? Moreover the High Court has given some verdict. It can only be challenged in court. In 1980s widow Khaleda and her orphan sons may have helpless situation. But not her sons are many say billionaires. They have allegedly siphoned huge ill-gotten property in different countries. People had sympathy for a widow and orphans but they have no sympathy for a failed state leader and her corrupt sons. There is no reason that she should still continue to occupy government property. Moreover, she is leader of a major political party. Cantonment is a sensitive area .She cannot do politics living in CANTONMENT.

Tareq was the king pin of Hawa bhaban which virtually run the government from 2002-2006. There are several allegations against him. Many of these are under investigations. Investigations of some major acts of terrorism are gradually surfacing his role in these. His sickness is not so serious that these cannot be treated in Bangladesh or he is required to say abroad for indefinite period. The acts of money laundering and other acts of corruption are almost established against Koko.His sickness is also not such that he cannot be treated in Bangladesh. If Khaleda must respect judiciary .She must not have  any reason to believe that judiciary will deliberately harass and punish her innocent[?] sons.

Cantonment house or legal proceeding againstTareq and Koko can not be reasons for opposition movement or Khaleda terming the government as failed government and demand interim election .

People are smart enough.Theyt fully understand that progress of trail of war criminals has rocked the foundation of BNP politics. People won’t buy their prescriptions. BNP cannot master any public support to agitate on the street for other issues like price spirals or Energy crisis as these are their own creation. BNP may gradually disintegrate as people from right , left , top and bottom assembled to walk on power corridor accessed through back door by General Zia .They are mostly winter birds. They will fly away to comfort zone like some already gone. Hence they have to either resort to violent politics or conspire .People are gradually getting concerned that opposition destructive politics is behind various crisis here and there. Opposition must shun politics of conspiracy and destruction and take all issues on the floor of parliament to keep government honest.

Power bound politics

Among other demands OGPC backed up by minor left leaning satellite parties are demanding

• No to Open Pit Mining of Coal Resources.
• No to Foreign Companies for Coal and Gas Exploration
• No to Export of Coal and Gas.
• Scrap the contract of Asia Energy for Mining at Phulbari.

Let us deal these one by one. It cannot be denied that present government like its predecessorshas miserably failed to adopt  the appropriate strategy for  exploration and exploitation of  our own resources and make professional utilization of resources .It has also in operation and maintenance of existing infrastructures professionally so far. Elected government is dominated by opportunist beauracrats. Inappropriate government vision and amateur management have  deepened crisis and the situation is getting from bad to worse day by day. Instead of exploring and exploiting our precious resources misguided government is pursuing unworkable expensive import strategy of Coal and LNG. There are no political protests or civil spocity anxiety for these self-destructive approaches.

No to Open Pit Mining:

There is no professional mining engineer and mining geologist in service now. All retired mining professionals and experienced energy sector professionals are convinced that Bangladesh must now explore its substantial coal resource applying the most technically appropriate and finmacially viable open pit method. Prevailing Geology, overburden, depth and thickness of coal seam, presence of active aquifer support only open pit mining in 4 out of 5 discovered coal mines. The amateur attempts of underground long wall mining at Barapukuria has already turned it into a white elephant and  istriggering disaster. Yet the agitators  arecreating hue and cry against open pit mining. Our coal is of much superior quality than even of neighboring India which exports its inferior low quality polluting coal to Bangladesh. Significant volume of polluting coal is also smuggled into Bangladesh through porous border. These pollute Bangladesh environment. No one has ever heard that OGPC has ever protested against this.

Off late some section of less informed theoreticians are urging for Underground Coal Gasification of Coal. This was a failed method in Former SoveitUnion.Off late some Australian mines are trying this and use coal seam gas. This author considers that other than Jamalganj deep mine it cannot be applied in other mines for technical reasons. Even at Jamalgonj which cannot be explored by traditional means a feasibility study for UCG  can be carried out. But at Phulbari and Barapukuria Open pit mining is the only feasible option.A combination of open and underground ming can be applied for the other two mines at Dighipara and Khalaspeer.Although mining is not a rocket science yet it needs lot of intensive works of line professionals to develop a mine. Academicians and nonprofessionals can only do research but mining must be left to miners alone. Bangladesh hardly possesses any active miner.

Modern open pit mining safeguards against all impacts in a much professional manner. The mined area is mostly rehabilitated to original and better state excepting the last section. The surface and subsurface water is managed professionally. Theaffected community is relocated and rehabilitated and their economic activities are  restored. Smart persons know about these.But still they misguide policy makers.

OGPC activists and satellite politicians who on their own credential will never win any election in Bangladesh are opposing open pit mining. Their actions are assisting a section of energy mafias who want to continue importing or bringing into Bangladesh dirty polluting coal from across the border. There cannot be any logic to protect against any particular method of mining. It is OUTRAGEOUS AND ILLOGICAL AND AGAINST NATIONAL INTEREST.

No to Foreign Companies for Oil and Gas Exploration:

Oil, Gas and Coal exploration requires huge risk capital and state of the art modern technology. None of the state owned enterprises have technical capability or financial resources to accomplish mining .Over the last decade or so lack of proper market signal and incentives caused minimum or no exploration of petroleum and natural resources. Few foreign companies abandoned their operations . Bangladesh also failed to allocate resources for exploration of its own. The present situation can only be confronted through engagement of capable foreign companies through transparent bidding process. Still OPC is agitating against foreign investment and government has enacted indemnity bill for engaging developers through entertaining unsolicited offers. Both are equally destructive.

No to Export of Coal and Gas:

No sensible person can support export of gas and coal till there is viable domestic market .But one must not completely shut export window as situation will always arise when export of some amount of energy will encourage exploration and development of resources . There may be some situation where for technical reasons export will be essential specially in case of active coal mines. The present gas epidemic has arisen for not providing the required market signal to UNOCAL in early 2000.But there must not be provision for uncontrolled export of energy.

Scrap Contract of Asia Energy:

Two democratic Government: BNP in 1994 and Awami League in 1998 signed contracts of mine exportation and developing international companies for exploration and mining of coal at Phulbari. BHP Billiton the largest mining company of the world discovered Phulbari mine. Another company Asia Energy after carrying out extensive feasibility studies through accredited mining consulting companies and following all laid down provisions of Minining Act subsmitted Scheme of Development in late 2005 for mining. A group of opportunits failing to get illegal benefits from developers created artificaial crisis in the mining community .There are enough live evidences that the Phulbari unfortunate incident took place through conspiracy of a particular vested quarter. Following that the failed government at that time instead of handling the matter properly bowed down to illegitimate demand of agitators. Can the contract between soverien government with and International Company be scrapped wsithout establishing their default? Will the agitators bear the huge financial damage that the government will have to bear when such unilateral termination of contract will lead to arbitration?

The suffering citizen of Bangladesh must realize that this group of agitators are also responsible along with opportunists beauracrats and failed politicians for the present sufferings. There are no valid logic for their impudent actions. Wonder why the chronological development of Phulbari tragedy is not thrpoughly investigated? Why the persons who triggered the crisis through instigating innocent victims are not surfaced? Wghat were the terms of reference of the committee formed to evaluate AEC submitted Scheme of Development? Why Government cannotreconvene a meeting of all 12 members of that expert committee and ask each individuals about their opinion? What situation led to formulation of Coal policy in 2005? Why all governments are unnecessarily wasting time on coal policy? Posterity will curse the present bunch of failed politicians policy makers for their massive failures in dealing with the most important and essential service –energy supply.

People must understand the ill motives of agitators and time has arrived to socially resist them. Democratic government must carry out the task entrusted upon them by the voters. They must take take appropriate actions to explore and exploit natural resources professionally to create long term energy security failing which people may throw them into bins.

Congratulation Tigers

Bangladeshis have very rare occasion of celebrating national victories. But we had one yesterday which people irrespective of political belief, cast and creed celebrated. An occasion which brought Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition close together. Our cricketers gave us the moment of joy and glory.

Bengal tigers white washing full strength black caps in ODI  is by any count the greatest sporting achievement of cricket loving sporting nation. The manner in which Saquib influenced tiger cabs hunted Kiwis deserves unqualified praise. Wining four matches in a row and some matches going down to the wire evidence the growing maturity and never say die attitude. The entire team gelled together in great commitment and determination. Tigers have now developed the habit of winning and will definitely act as a team to reckon with in the ensuing World Cup for all its opposition . Bangladesh won 1st, 4th and 5^th ODI after keen contest and second was a roller coaster. SaquibulHasan , the top ranked ODI all-rounder amply demonstrated his superiority with both willow and leaher scoring 211 runs with century and a fity and grabbing 11 wickets in four matches. He was man of the series. Two other youngsters SurawardyShuva and RubelHussain won man of the match accolade in two other ODI with Saquib winning the other two .

Kiwis were originally due to play a full series of test matches oDI and twenty twenty in Bangladesh. But BCB thought it wise to turn the series into 5 match ODI with an eye to the ensuing ICC World Cup preparation. Bangladesh preparation got a blow before even the series started as the flamboyant Bangladesh opener TamimIqbals delayed operation in his hands forced him out of the series. Captain and ace strike bowler Mashrafee also got injured in the very first match . We all know another key player Mohammad Ashraful was not in tune. So Bangladesh had to encounter strong Kiwis without three key players . But Saquib just returning from a successful English county stinct and Bangladesh unit after extensive preparation and hard work looked determined from the start.

For Kiwis adjusting to heat and humidity was a great challenge. Moreover rain and inclement weather at the end of the season also restricted their preparation. But a team having world class players like BredenMcCullam, Ross Taylor and Daniel Vittori can afdjust to any condition. Inspired by Saquib all round performance Bangladesh stunned Kiwis in the first ODI by 9 runs. Tigers started dreaming of winning the first ever oDI against a fdull strength major majoropposition . The second ODI was washed out without a ball being bowled. Bangladesh did not allow Kiwis to regroup in the third ODI and had a roller coaster 7 wickets victory when Young Suharawardy Shuvo bowled exceedingly well . Fourth ODI was Saquibs solo and the 5^th was a nail bitter.

No one expected in the wildest of drteams that Bangladesh will succesfuly defend a moderate target of 174 in the last ODI.But the changed Tigers were not willing to loose. In the first few overs they broke the backbone of Kwi batting grabbing 5 wickets forcing them to perspire for life. Vittori and Elliot were giving them life saving drugs and lamost pulled them out of danger zone. But determined tigers bowling and fielding like champions hit them back in time. When young Rubel knocked out Mills leg stump in the third ball of the last over Kiwis were only 4 runs away from target. Rubel got 4 wickets. Bangladesh erupted with tears of joy.

In the history of Bangladesh cricket the just concluded oDI series victory will remain as a significant milestone and future inspiration. Well dione Bangladesh. Tiger cabs are really maturing. In the past there were isolated victories. But now the team has grown in confidence and does not throw the towel .

With series against Zoimababwe in December and World Cup next year Bangladesh need to further iron its efforts. Batting will be definitely bolstered with the return of TamimIqubal. Middlre order batting still remains in a spot of bother. We will love to see a rejuvenated Ashraful back into action soon. Junaid and Roquibul did not bat well in the series. ShariarNafees is getting back his tune. He can bat at number three when Tamim gets back and opens with ImrulKayes> Bangladesh needs some late order stroke maker to make best use of batting p[ower play. Return of fully fit Mashrafee will be useful. Bangladesh also needs to improve bowling at the batting power play in death overs. Much improved Rubel and Shafiul give hope . India and South Africa are in Bangladesh Group in ICC Woreld Cup. Bangladesh beat both in 1997 World Cup. We must make specific plans against both.

The Tiger White Washing Black Caps will make Bangladeshis around the world start dreaming for greater glories. Tigers must gear up to match that.

Congratulations tigers – a job well done.

Investment – both local and foreign has drastically gone down. Several investors investing borrowed capital in energy consuming industries are starving for energy. Existing industries continue to suffer production loss. Allthese are bound to impact on GDP growth. Frustration has started creeping in. Desperate governmentinitiated several contingency actions to set up expensive liquid fuel power plants and implement load management.Most of these have already fallen behind schedule .All these appear to create ripples in the big sea. Nothing appears to bring tangible benefits.

Failing to conclude some major power project contracts following traditional process Government has enacted controversial indemnity bill for managing power and energy sector contract awards on unsolicited offers. In this chaotic situation another dry season, another period of intensive irrigation round the corner may deepen crisis. Government in its soul searching must have started realizing that it failed miserably in mitigating energy crisis in two years for its unrealistic beauracratic actions. In choosing sector players government followed the chosen path of predecessors- incompetent party loyal.

With two of the five years term almost gone nation hates to listen to lame excuses of nadequate actions of previous regimes specially when present government repeatedly talked about plans and mega plans to confront and overcome impending crisis. Government is still juggling with unnecessary coal policy formulation. After prolonged delay Government approved Cairn/ Santos proposal for third party  gassales from future development of block 16. If this could be approved a few months earlier some gas could be expected for gas starved Chittagong market by April 2011. After protracted delay government has just signed PSC with Conoco Philips for deep water exploration. It may take another 5 -7 years to get any benefit from it.  It is apprehended that Conoco Philips deal has some hidden mysteries which may create future uncertainties.

Coal policy is not required   to let Asia Energy Commence mining at Phulbari and commences setting up mine mouth power plants.Existing mines and minerals act and policy are more than enough. Yet to serve vested interest government is wasting time.It is very much possible to review AEC Scheme of Development by a team of true mining professionals. Underground mining has already proved disastrous at Barapukuria.Leaving our coal high quality coal buried underground Government has initialed MOU with India to setup tw large plants at Chittagong and Khulna based on imported coal. All knows Bangladesh will take several years to set up enabling infrastructure for coal import. The imported coal based power will be very expensive. Government is also pursuing very expensive LNG import route. This will also take several years and huge investment.There were tall talks about Nuclear power generation. But very little progress has been made so far.

Situation in Chittagong is all the more critical. Gas demand in Chittagong is now about 350MMCFD.Petrobangla can supply about 250MMCFD The 100MMCFD deficit has created gas draught. Government has to choose between Fertilizer and power for preferential supply. Even then rest of the end users suffer. Many industries in Chittagong are perspiring for Gas Supply for a long time. The situation aggravated since drastic depletion of supply from Offshore Shangu field. Shangu showed ominous sign of depletion from 2002 still Petrobangla did neither make any alternate arrangement for diverting gas supply to Chittagong from national grid constructing a Bakhrabad –Chittagong Loop linenor steering Cairn to carry out further development of Shangu nor develop Magnama and Hatiya gas fields. It could not support BAPEX to develop Semutang or settle dispute with Niko to develop FeniField. Rather Petrobangla and EMRD sat on Cairn legitimate proposal of allowing third party marketing right of its share of gas in Chittagong. If approved by July 2010 Cairn could carry out required development works to partially mitigate Chittagong crisis by April 2011. But for lapses of PB/EMRD that opportunity may not come.

Government is playing a broken record that 4 party alliance government in 5 years and Interinm care taker government in two years created crisis. But whatever addition to power and gas have been made so far are basically due to ground actions initiated earlier.But what the present government achieved in almost two years? What situation required them to enact a highly controversial indemnity bill for resorting to unsolicited offers entertaining in energy sector? Why democratic government actions cannot be challenged in  thecourt? Why transparency and accountability will not be there?

Government is still drum beating that by 2012 load shedding will be eliminated. By 2012 Chittagong will get LNG supply. 2010 is almost over. In 2 years it will be impossible to achieve these  unrealistictargets. All persons involved in the process will not turn angels overnight. .People behind indemnity bill in Energy Sector will make their fortune and leave government orphan by 2012 when energy crisis will continue to remain standstill.Government will be exposed to people’s hatred and mistrust.

Government must do soul searching as to why investments in Energy and power sector could not be attracted after much hyped Raod Shows in December 2009 and January 2010? Why contract for Bibiyana 450 MW power plant deal could not be firmed up? Why GTCL Compressor stations contract award could not be made after 5 years of conceiving the project? Why GTCL cannot operate its gas transmission assets professionally? Why transmission pipelines cannot have routine on-stream pigging for retaining design efficiency?  How condensate and Sludge can travel to KAFCO and Patenga south? Why Dhaka Clean Fuel project could not achieve its desired objectives? Present Energy Advisor is a smart person. He must be made to respond these questions? Why a democratically elected government should continue to get embarrassed for internecine activities of some opportunist few?

Government will start getting panicked if the present diabolic situation in power and energy sector persists. An all-out concerted effort is essential. There must be meaningful action plan and implementation drive. Arrangement of sustainable fuel supply must be ensured. Our domestic coal and natural gas must be professionally exploited. Our economy cannot sustain the impact of highly expensive, liquid fuel, LNG and imported coal over longer terms.

Government will feel the punch from frustrated energy users if it fails to demonstrate positive actions soon.

How condensate and Sludge can travel to KAFCO and Patenga south?