BD needs to focus on multimodal transport network, opine experts

Bangladesh should focus more on freight transportation routes for faster and reliable movement of the merchandise at home and abroad, said speakers at a programme on Friday.

Establishing multimodal transportation system with special attention to naval ways is also vital in this regard. The country can also learn from China which has systematically developed its communication network across the country through decentralisation, they said.

They made the observations at a seminar titled "Fostering economic growth through industrial and supply chain cooperation between China and Bangladesh" held on the sideline of the 'Belt & Road Initiative in Bangladesh Exhibition 2025' in the city's International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in Purbachal.

Counsellor (Economic and Commercial) of the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh Song Yang attended the seminar as the chief guest. President of the Chinese Enterprises Association in Bangladesh (CEAB) Han Kun, Professor of Civil Engineering Department at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) Dr Shamsul Hoque, Director of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Faisal Samad, Director General of Department of ICT Md. Abu Sayed and Joint Secretary of the Power Division Sanaul Huq spoke at the event, among others.

Speaking on the occasion, Song Yang said Bangladesh and China have been maintaining a friendly relationship for a long period of time. He highlighted various initiatives, including a major hospital and a female hostel at Dhaka University, taken by the Chinese government to support Bangladesh.

In his speech, Prof Shamsul Hoque said Bangladesh seriously lacks in freight transportation network unlike the transportation of people. "The country now needs to focus on multimodal transport network with special attention to reliable mode like river and rail," he said.

Similar to China, Bangladesh has got a huge population in proportion to its land, he said. "I think, we can learn from China. How they planned and make best use of the vertical structure."

BGMEA's Director Faisal Samad said despite some challenges, Bangladesh has been a suitable investment destination for Chinese businesses. Using their experiences and expertise, Chinese investors can take over or acquire ailing factories in Bangladesh, he said, adding that the CEAB can provide all the necessary support in this regard.

Mr Abu Sayed said better connectivity largely depends on digitalisation for which several Chinese companies are providing support to Bangladesh.

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