The New Nation - Internet Edition

About 700 small and medium industrial enterprises at Araihazar, Rupganj and Bhulta industrial belts are reportedly on the verge of collapse due to acute shortage of gas supply. Industrialists and businessmen from those areas informed that they were getting gas at the rate of 15 psi instead of required rate of 150 psi. They reportedly threatened to disrupt gas transmission through the area unless uninterrupted gas supply to their industries is ensured. It sharply expresses the gravity of the situation.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form a great part of the industrial network of the country. SMEs make a significant contribution to the national economy. These industries are the main areas of small domestic investments and represent large part of productivity. SMEs also provide huge employment opportunities. A significant part of export earnings come from these industries. Without a strong base of small and medium enterprises the industrial infrastructure of the country is not likely to remain in good health.

The government has adopted policies to boost the sector. Care should be taken so that growth of the SMEs is in no way neglected or hampered. Gas is both a raw material and a vital source of energy for industries. Hence, any shortage of supply of these inputs is detrimental to the survival and growth of industries. The concerned authorities should ensure necessary power and energy support to these industrial units. Adequate preparations including short, middle and long term plans and programme should be made to ensure uninterrupted supply of gas and electricity. The volume of production of energy and power should be planned to create a congenial power structure supportive of further growth of SMEs. Even maintenance of status quo of SMEs demands that at least 2.4 percent of its growth should be ensured to cope with the growth of population.

Ariful Huq

Dhaka