Prioritising operation of Jamuna Fertiliser factory

The seven-month closure of Jamuna Fertiliser Company Ltd., the country's largest urea producer, due to gas shortage is a matter of grave concern. This shutdown not only poses a significant threat to the livelihood of thousands of workers but also endangers the agricultural sector where farmers need fertiliser for production of paddy and other crops.

The factory, which was producing 1,700 tonnes of urea daily, now stands idle, its machinery gradually deteriorating from disuse. The stoppage of production is not only causing direct economic losses-around Tk 35million daily-but also proving highly frustrating for factory workers and local farmers. Many of the 4,000 workers, including transport workers and local businessmen, have been left without income to their utter distress. Furthermore, the damage to machinery from prolonged non-use could mean that this crucial plant may never recover, much like other industries such as jute and sugar.

Farmers are already feeling the pressure, fearing a severe shortage of fertiliser in the upcoming season. Jamuna Fertiliser supplies vital urea to 21 districts, including Jamalpur, Sherpur, Mymensingh, Tangail, and Rajbari. A shortage could lead to skyrocketing prices of fertiliser, forcing farmers to purchase expensive imports, potentially increasing costs fivefold.

It is alarming that despite these challenges, no immediate action has been taken to restore gas supply to the factory. The decision to prioritise gas supply to other plants while allowing Jamuna Fertiliser to languish seems short-sighted. With urea production costing just Tk 25,000 per tonne domestically, compared with Tk 0.10 million per tonne if imported, the decision to keep the factory idle is irrational and illogical.

The government must urgently restore gas supply to the Jamuna Fertiliser Factory. Failing to do so will not only cripple our agricultural productivity but will also exacerbate the suffering of thousands of workers. We cannot afford to let this key industrial plant fall into disrepair and cause irreparable damage to the livelihoods of so many.

Osman Goni

Motijheel, Dhaka