Save Karnaphuli Paper Mills for the sake of education
A human chain yesterday urged the government to save the state-owned Karnaphuli Paper Mills (KPM) from being shut down, for the greater interest of the country’s education.
The human chain, organised by “Save KPM Movement” -- a platform of offspring of former employees of the mill -- feared that the paper business would be monopolised by the private paper industries once KPM is shut down.
Over 200 people attended the programme held in front of Chattogram Press Club.
Subimol Chowdhury, former principal of KPM High School and College, said if the mill is shut down, it will have a severe impact on the education sector as private paper mill owners will take the opportunity to monopolise the industry.
Those who come from lower income families would face hurdles to continue their education once the cost of paper goes up, he said. The government must take initiative to save KPM -- riddled with corruption and mismanagement, he added.
Maksud Rumi, former officer of KPM, said crores were spent in the name of renovation and yet, KPM over the years lost its production capability and ended up producing five to 10 tonnes of paper while it has the ability to produce 100 tonnes per day.
Advocate Jahangir Alam, former student of KPM High School, said there are at least 1,27,000 acres of land which will be “mismanaged” once KPM is shut down.
“We urge the government to save KPM at any cost, for the betterment of education,” he added.
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