BHOLA, Nov 1, V7N -Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan announced plans to drill nine additional natural gas wells in Bhola by 2028 to boost Bangladesh's domestic gas production. While visiting the Ilisha-1 gas field in Bhola, he stated that five of these wells are expected to be drilled by 2025, with an additional 14 wells planned by 2028.

Highlighting the pressing need for gas in Bangladesh, Khan explained that the country currently needs 4,000 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of gas but is only producing 2,000 mmcfd, resulting in substantial foreign currency spending to bridge the shortfall through imports. Bangladesh annually imports LNG at a cost of Tk. 6,000 crore, underscoring the importance of boosting domestic production through the development of new gas fields.

Khan emphasized that future projects will be subject to open competition to ensure the best value, with expert opinions sought to guide these projects. He remarked that past large projects lacked attention to public priorities, contributing to corruption, and affirmed that upcoming initiatives would focus more on the needs of the people.

Addressing the demand for domestic gas supply, he refrained from making promises, stating that gas supply expansion would be considered as production increases. He also pledged to tackle Bhola's electricity challenges and support the establishment of gas-based factories in the district.

During his visit, the adviser inspected various gas fields and gas-based power plants in Bhola, accompanied by Energy Secretary SM Moin Ahmed, Pettobangla's Chairman, Bhola’s Deputy Commissioner Md Azad Jahan, and other senior officials.