The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

The Oil-Gas-Mineral Resources and Power-Port Protection National Committee (OGMRPPPNC) yesterday called upon the government for establishing a marine ministry and a Khani Bangla for proper utilisation of mineral resources in the country.

Leaders of the OGMRPPPNC made this call at a press conference at National Press Club. Prof Anu Muhammed and Prof M Shamsul Alam read out two statements while OGMRPPPNC Convenor Eng Sheikh Mohammed Shahidullah, Justice Golam Rabanny and Prof Abu Ahmed addressed the press conference.

The OGMRPPPNC placed 14-point recommendations including strengthening the BAPEX, Petrobangla, Geological Survey and Bureau of Mineral Development. The establishment of Khoni Bangla will ensure proper utilisation of the national resources, a recommendation said.

In his statement, Prof Anu pleaded with the government for introducing research departments and research centres in universities for producing skilled manpower in this field.

The government must withdraw all the agreements against national interest in energy sector, he said, adding, "Ministers, secretaries, consultants and businessmen who are responsible for signing agreements and exporting the mineral resources against the national interest, must be brought to trial."

The government should also take initiative for realising compensation from the multinational companies including the chevron and the Niko for their responsibility in Magurchara and Tangertial incidents, he said.

He also suggested framing of a national energy policy that will protect the right of the country.