In a significant move reflecting rising national and global climate concerns, over 1,000 residents of Matarbari Union have submitted a public petition to Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, urging the immediate cancellation of the proposed 635 MW coal-fired power plant by Orion Power Unit-2 Dhaka Ltd. in Matarbari, Cox’s Bazar.
The petition was submitted in coordination with the Bangladesh Working Group on Ecology and Development (BWGED) and the Coastal Livelihood and Environmental Action Network (CLEAN), with support from 144 civil society organizations. The coalition warns of serious environmental, economic, and public health risks posed by the coal project.
Signatories argue that the proposed plant contradicts Bangladesh’s international climate commitments, including its pledges at COP26 and under the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) to approve no new coal-based power plants.
Originally approved in 2013 under the Speedy Supply of Power and Energy Act, the Orion project has consistently failed to meet construction deadlines and remains inactive to date.
Environmental experts estimate that the plant would emit 3 to 4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, alongside hazardous pollutants such as mercury, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. It is estimated to release 105 kilograms of mercury each year, posing serious threats to public health, nearby protected forests, and local biodiversity.
The projected annual economic cost from health and environmental damages is estimated at Tk 1,100 to 1,500 crore. Additionally, capacity payments could direct Tk 3,000 crore annually to the private developer, further straining the national budget.
In light of these concerns, residents of Matarbari Union have called on the government to permanently cancel the proposed coal power plant and revoke all associated land leases. However, the government has already taken initial steps by cancelling the land lease for the project.