Japanese investments

The prime minister during her recent visit to Japan asked Japan government and private investors to make investments in Bangladesh. It may be mentioned that Japan invested in Chittagong steel mills during 1963-67. Unfortunately this mill was closed down by the end of the last century though the mill remained in operation quite successfully for three decades. It is very much likely that Japanese investors may try to assess the reasons of such closure of the steel mills. Today private sector steel mills are doing a thriving business. It reminds me that Rupsha-Bagerhat railway service was closed down by the end of last century though this railway services started in 1918 and broad gauge was introduced in late sixties. Today bus service is the lone mode of transport between Khulna and Bagerhat, but this is too expensive for the common people. Bangladesh government may urge Japan to help restoration of the Rupsha- Bagerhat railway services.

Mahmud Ali
New Eskaton, Dhaka