DHAKA:  The maiden special Energy Security Day was observed in the country Monday, highlighting plans for development and proper management of the energy sector, particularly gas mining.

As part of the day’s programme, a seminar was held at the petrocenter office of Petrobangla at 3 pm.  Finance Minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith attended the programme as chief guest.

Prime Minister’s energy and power sector adviser Dr. Toufiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, state minister for energy and power Enamul Haque, chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on the same ministry Subid Ali Bhuiyan, power secretary Abul Kalam Azad and energy secretary Mezbahuddin also attended the programme as special guests. Petrobangla chairman Dr. Hossain Monsur was in the chair.

The state-run petroleum corporation, Petrobangla, published supplements in newspapers to mark the day.

The supplements elaborated that on August 9, 1975, the then president and father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman took possession of 5 important gas fields of the country from multinational exploration company Shell. The gas fields are presently known as Titas, Habiganj, Bakhrabad, Rashidpur and Kailashtila.

“Just a few days before his demise, Bangabandhu secured the natural resources of the country by his prudent decision. The nation will recognize such great decision with profound gratitude,” the Petrobangla chairman said.

Dr. Hossain Monsur told banglanews24.com.bd, “We are observing August 9 as Energy Security Day to mark the day in 1975 when Bangabandhu secured those 5 gas fields for the country.”

But, if needed, the date might be changed in future.

BDST: 1045 HRS, AUGUST 2010