PM directs comprehensive green infrastructure for Chinese EZ in Anwara

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has instructed the relevant authorities to establish an integrated waste management system and ensure the use of renewable energy in the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone located in Anwara, Chattogram, with the goal of developing a green and sustainable industrial hub.

The directive was issued during a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Tuesday. The committee approved the “Supporting Infrastructure Project for the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone” on the condition that environmental safeguards and sustainable energy solutions are fully incorporated into the project design.

Briefing reporters after the meeting at the NEC Conference Centre, State Minister for Planning Md. Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki said the project has an estimated cost of approximately Tk 4,189.46 crore. Of the total amount, around Tk 1,722.20 crore will be financed by the government, while the remainder will come from project loans and grants.

During the review of the proposal, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of balancing industrial development with environmental protection. He directed authorities to establish a comprehensive waste management system that complies with modern environmental standards and protocols.

The Prime Minister also instructed the installation of a modern Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) and stressed that treated water should be made suitable for reuse. Officials were further directed to eliminate any environmental shortcomings in the project design before implementation.

To promote clean and sustainable energy, the Prime Minister ordered the mandatory use of solar-based renewable energy within the industrial zone and called for the installation of solar panels throughout the area.

According to the State Minister for Planning, the project received approval subject to the implementation of measures related to waste management, advanced water treatment and recycling facilities, and renewable energy integration. He added that these environmentally sustainable components must be reflected in the final project implementation plan.