After a 13-month hiatus, Bangladesh’s second-largest urea fertilizer facility, the Jamuna Fertilizer Factory in Jamalpur, has resumed production following the restoration of its gas supply. The restart, which began on February 13, marks a pivotal moment for the factory and the local agricultural community.
A Storied Past Marred by Technical Setbacks
Established in 1991 in Tarakandi, Sorishabari Upazila, the Jamuna Fertilizer Factory once boasted a daily production capacity of 1,700 tons of granular urea. For decades, it was a linchpin in distributing fertilizer to farmers across 162 upazilas in 21 districts via approximately 1,900 dealers registered with the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC). However, recurring issues with gas pressure and technical glitches gradually reduced production to about 1,200 tons per day.
The Gas Crisis and Its Ripple Effects
On January 15, 2024, the factory was forced to cease operations when a critical drop in gas pressure—vital for maintaining the necessary 42–43 PSI for continuous production—occurred due to supply shortfalls from Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company. The sudden shutdown disrupted not only the domestic fertilizer supply but also the livelihoods of countless workers, truck drivers, and local business owners who depend on the factory’s operations. With imported fertilizers filling the gap, farmers experienced shortages and a decline in crop performance, as these alternatives did not match the quality of the locally produced urea.
The economic impact was severe. Authorities estimated a daily loss of about 30 crore Bangladeshi Taka (roughly USD 248,000), reflecting the broader financial strain on the factory and the communities it supports. The shutdown sparked protests from both factory employees and local residents, who underscored the critical role of the facility in sustaining regional economic stability.
Restoring Production: A Technical and Economic Milestone
The turning point came when Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company restored a sufficient gas supply. Deputy Chief Engineer Fazlul Haque announced that urea production resumed on February 13, albeit with full production expected to be achieved within the next 10–12 days. General Manager Delwar Hossain detailed that the process involved “firing” the production plant’s furnace—a key step that restarted operations after the prolonged interruption.
The restoration of production has rekindled optimism among workers and the local community. “After a long gap, restarting production feels like a new beginning for us,” said one truck driver, reflecting the relief felt by many who had been financially strained by the shutdown.
Implications for Farmers and the Broader Agricultural Sector
Farmers have voiced concerns over the impact of the shutdown on crop yields. Sushanto Barman, a farmer from Rangpur Sadar Upazila, noted that the locally produced fertilizer is far superior to imported alternatives, which have resulted in noticeable crop losses during the period of reduced supply. The revival of the Jamuna Fertilizer Factory is therefore not only a boon for production but also a critical factor in ensuring that farmers receive the high-quality inputs essential for a robust agricultural season.
With its extensive distribution network, the factory’s return to full capacity is expected to re-establish a reliable supply chain, reducing the nation’s dependency on imported fertilizers and the associated government subsidies.
Looking Ahead: Economic Recovery and National Benefits
Shafikul Islam, President of the Jamuna Fertilizer Factory Workers’ Union, expressed gratitude for the efforts that led to the gas supply restoration. “The resumption of production brings hope to our community. By relying on domestic production, we can reduce our dependence on imports and stimulate local industry, ultimately boosting national revenue,” he stated.
Similarly, Managing Director Abu Saleh Mohammed Mosleh Uddin remains optimistic, emphasizing that, barring any further technical issues, full-scale production will resume within 10–12 days. This critical recovery is poised to strengthen the domestic fertilizer industry and provide much-needed relief to a local economy that has long relied on the consistent output of the Jamuna Fertilizer Factory.
The revival of the Jamuna Fertilizer Factory after a 13-month hiatus is more than a return to production—it signals a turning point for Bangladesh’s agricultural sector. By re-establishing domestic production, the nation is set to reduce its reliance on imports, safeguard the livelihoods of thousands, and ensure that farmers have access to the high-quality fertilizer essential for optimal crop yields. As full production looms on the horizon, all eyes remain on Jamalpur, where renewed operations promise to usher in a period of economic stability and growth.
