The extension of the Indo-Bangla Friendship Pipeline, planned to run from Dinajpur’s Parbatipur Upazila to Natore, faces delays due to ongoing political uncertainties, according to Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and Indian media reports.
With a capacity to transport 1 million tonnes of high-speed diesel annually, the project was estimated to cost Rs 377 crore, of which Rs 285 crore of BD portion was covered by an Indian grant. BPC stated that while the proposal is agreed upon, it remains under review with no discussions on proceeding or halting the project. Indian media speculates that Bangladesh’s changing political climate may have dampened enthusiasm for the extension, suggesting it has “pressed the pause button.”
A BPC spokesperson acknowledged some operational issues, such as non-automated tanks, but emphasized the cost-efficiency of the pipeline, confirming that Bangladesh continues to import diesel through this route for savings despite the delays.
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