Dhaka, Feb 09 (V7N) – Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor, expressed optimism regarding improvements in law and order across the country. He announced that the 'Central Command Center,' which will coordinate all security forces, will commence operations from 6 PM today. The Ministry of Home Affairs will oversee the command center's activities. Alam shared these updates during a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy on Sunday afternoon.

Highlighting economic progress, Alam noted that the economy has improved by 10% over the past five months. He projected that inflation could decrease by 7% by July. To stabilize the food supply, the government plans to import 900,000 tons of food grains this year.

Addressing the energy sector, Alam reported that the subsidy for arrears in the electricity sector has been increased from Tk 40,000 crore to Tk 62,000 crore. Efforts are underway to control subsidy expenditures by reducing production costs without increasing electricity prices for consumers. This strategy is expected to reduce costs by approximately Tk 11,444 crore, or 10%, within the current year.

In addition, plans are in place to boost gas production by drilling new wells, aiming to increase output to 648 million cubic feet per day in the near term, with a goal of reaching 1,500 million cubic feet per day by 2028.

During the meeting, the Chief Advisor emphasized the need to ensure the autonomy of the central bank and called for swift legal action against those involved in bank robberies. The Bangladesh Bank Governor confirmed that all assets of S Alam Group have been frozen. Alam also disclosed that action has been taken against Nagad, although details were not provided.

END/MSS/AJ