Teesta/Phulbari20 Aug 2025 07:11
Just a re run of how far GCM can go with this till all projects are signed up……
In early 2025 a seminar and discussion was organised by the Hydrocarbon Unit of the Power and Energy Ministry, in attendance was the Power and Energy Adviser along with numerous Academics and Mining Experts. Information about the proposal to mine Phulbari from Asia Energy was presented. The overall consensus was that the way forward was to recommend to the next elected government that the project,utilising open pit mining, should go ahead. The Energy Adviser stressed that 'mining of our resources is essential for relieving stress on fuel imports ', he is further reported to have stated that $15bn in funding was on offer from a 'mining company' to facilitate the project. The project will be part of the Chinese Belt and Road initiative.
PowerChina, having signed a MOU to develop the mine, including removal of the overburden, is also working with the government on implementing the nearby Teesta River reclamation project, it has been speculated that overburden from Phulbari would be utilised in that process. As with the Phulbari project discussions are ongoing between stakeholders, future partners and the government. China has stated it will expand Rail projects in Bangladesh ready for the Teesta Project, doing so could also facilitate the transportation of Phulbari coal to existing coal power plants.
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