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Home › Dodgy Deals ›
Dodgy Deal
Rampal coal power plantBangladesh

Project – On record

This profile is no longer actively maintained, with the information now possibly out of date
Contact:

climate@banktrack.org

Last update: 2022-06-03 00:00:00
Protest against Rampal coal fired power plant. Photo: Gmanwar.bd via Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-4.0)

Project – On record

This profile is no longer actively maintained, with the information now possibly out of date
Contact:

climate@banktrack.org

Last update: 2022-06-03 00:00:00
Why this profile?

Why this profile?

The Rampal coal power plant, also known as the Maitree Super Thermal Power Project, is a heavily opposed project that threatens the livelihoods of over two million inhabitants that are dependent upon the Sundarbans forest’s resources. People living around the forest depend on the forest’s resources to fulfil their basic needs, while others use them to earn a living. The power plant also threatens the rich biodiversity of the Sundarbans. If the power plant becomes operational, the Sundarbans’ ecosystem will be permanently affected and life in the forests will be confronted with destruction. Once operationalised, the coal power plant will emit around 8 million tonnes of CO2 each year, contributing massively to global warming.

What must happen

Financiers should refuse to finance this project and rule out involvement in financing or support of any kind for the Rampal coal power plant.

About
Sectors Coal Electric Power Generation
Location
Status
Planning
Design
Agreement
Construction
Operation
Closure
Decommission
Website http://bifpcl.com/

The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is a living and effective natural fence protecting the coastal belt areas of Bangladesh, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has saved the people of Bangladesh from the devastation of cyclones, and also offers various sources of livelihood to more than 500,000 local inhabitants. The Sundarbans is also home to endangered dolphins, Bengal tigers and rich biodiversity.

The Sundarbans is now at the risk of destruction because the Bangladeshi government is moving ahead with the development of a coal power plant at Rampal with a capacity of 1,320MW of electricity. The plant will be located only 14 kilometers away from the Sundarbans Reserve Forest, and will cover 1,834 acres of land. The government has judged the project location as a 'safe' distance from the mangrove forest.

This large coal power plant will be installed by a joint venture comprising National Thermal Power Company (NTPC) of India and the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). The joint venture company, Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company (BIFPCL), has appointed the Indian company Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) to construct the coal power plant. Financial closure was reached in 2017: debt financing for the power plant is provided by the Indian Export-Import Bank.

Impacts

Social and human rights impacts

The proposed 1,320MW power plant project (consisting of two generating units of 660MW) will cause irreparable damage to the livelihoods of two million inhabitants dependent on the Sundarbans; most rely on agriculture, shrimp cultivation, and fishing but also wood, and palm collecting. All these livelihoods are at at risk as the support infrastructure of the Rampal power plant has already been built.

The most deadly impact will be on fisheries. The plant will discharge toxic water in the Passur River, and oil and chemical wastes from coal-carrying vessels will also contaminate the water. The mangrove-supported habitat will also suffer, and shrimp farms and homestead fishponds will be no exception.

In total, 95 percent of the land acquired is agricultural land. The production of crops will decrease since fertility will reduce drastically as a result of coal related pollution from the very beginning of the plant's operation. The air, odour and sound pollution will affect local inhabitants and cattle so badly that it will be barely possible for people to live and cultivate. Inhabitants' health is also likely to deteriorate.

The power plant will reduce the livestock grazing area, and waste from coal such as fly ashes and bottom ashes will contaminate air and water. This will make livestock vulnerable to diseases and will also affect the income level of households and farms.

The damage caused by installing an industrial site so close to the Sundarbans will leave the south-western coast of Bangladesh vulnerable to storms, cyclones, and other natural disasters.

Rampal Power Plant that officially covers 1,834 acres of land has put the livelihood of two million inhabitants under threat as the infrastructure has already been built. These local people were mostly dependent on agriculture and shrimp cultivation. The concerned authorities of the government of Bangladesh also displaced the local inhabitants in an improper and dubious manner. The land necessary for the proposed power plant project was acquired before the Department of Environment (DoE) granted a site clearance previous to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The government displaced local people, in many cases, without previous and informed consent from communities. Similarly, it remains unclear how compensation to land owners was handled. The documentary, Long Live the Sundarbans, covers the Long March and depicts human rights violations that took place in the Rampal area. South Asians for Human Rights (SAHR) conducted a fact finding mission focusing on the process of land acquisition while Transparency International Bangladesh reported instances of corruption and human rights violation.

In the rural society of Bangladesh, women are the main agents for ensuring long-term survival and bondage of a family. They are also the major bread earners of many families. As the livelihood or home of a family gets threatened, women become the first victims to suffer and struggle to keep their families go on.


Environmental and climate impacts

The importance and vulnerability of the Sundarbans is often contrasted with the extensive destruction which the Rampal power plant would bring about. According to Dr. Abdullah Harun Chowdhury and his team, the impacts of the Rampal 2x660 MW coal power plant are mostly negative and irreversible.

The research shows that climate, topography, land use pattern, air and water (both surface and ground) quality, wetlands, floral and faunal diversity, capture fisheries and tourism will be affected permanently due to the proposed coal fired power plant. Increase in water logging conditions, river erosion, noise pollution and health hazards; decrease of ground water table; loss of culture fisheries, social forestry and major destruction of agriculture will be the expected consequences of the Rampal coal-fired power plant.

Once the plant is in operation, it will burn 4.7 million tonnes of coal, emitting 7.9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide and other hazardous gases that will dispersed into the air. Reportedly, 220 tonnes of different toxic gases will be discharged daily from the plant unless they are treated appropriately before emission. These gases will be spread out by wind and affect communities, trees, animals, soil and livestock. Heavy metals resulting from coal burning will be kept in a 100 acre coal ash pond, containing toxic sludge located close to the Passur river, a cyclone and flood prone area.

The plant will require 9,150 cubic metres of water per hour from the Passur River for its operation. According to the official Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report, 5,150 cubic metre of hot water will be discharged every hour, daily, for the next 25 years into the Passur river. The toxic discharged water will have a destructive effect on the fisheries, shrimp farms, and mangrove-supported habitat.

This project would require 13,000 tonnes of coal on a daily basis, navigational vessels will travel up and down the Passur river daily to deliver the required coal volumes. In December 2014, an oil tanker sank spiling over 350 tonnes of furnace oil into the Shela river: locals were compelled to clean up given the lack of capacity to tackle oil spills. Less than six months later, in May 2015 a vessel sank in the Bhola river spreading 500 tonnes of toxic fertilizer. Less than half a year later, in October 2015, another vessel carrying 510 tonnes of coal capsized in the Passur rivers. The latest incident took place on March 19 2016, when a cargo vessel carrying 1,235 tonnes of coal capsized in the Shela river at the Chandpai Range.    

These cases are a strong reminder of the accidents that could occur once coal is transported daily to reach the Rampal site. Equally, extensive dredging needs to take place along the Passur river to allow vessels to navigate. These will most certainly harm the fragile ecosystem of the Sundarbans. And thus the people, the tigers, the dolphins, the turtles, the fish, the mangrove and the innumerable crucial organisms that keep the Sundarbans alive.

The coal plant would have consequences on its surroundings but also on the global climate. Not only would it burn a large amount of coal, it is likely to reduce the mangrove forest and coastal wetland, both of which may be able to store up to five times more carbon than tropical forests of the same size. Such extensive impacts on the Sundarbans would represent a huge loss for the world.


Other impacts

Indian company NTPC's involvement in this power plant project in Bangladesh is more motivated by commercial interest than by the legal and ethical guidelines it is supposed to follow when implementing such projects in India. According to the guidelines of the Indian Environment and Forest Ministry, it is not permitted to set up any such plant within a 25 km vicinity of any protected forest.

In Bangladesh, the government persistently endorses the Rampal power plant as if there was no other option than building the Rampal plant just beside the Sundarbans. No alternatives are put forward to mitigate the power crisis.

There is a great imbalance regarding the gains and losses that the Rampal project brings. The Bangladeshi cost of environmental degradation and loss of livelihoods will not necesarily be made even by a country-wide economic gain. Eventually if we want to see who is going to benefit from the economic growth, it is only those who can afford to pay for electricity.

A BankTrack analysis in 2015 concluded that the Rampal coal plant is non-compliant with the Equator Principles.

Financiers

The costs for the coal power plant in Rampal are USD 2 billion. According to IJGlobal, the project has a debt-equity ratio of 80:20.

The two companies BPDB and NTCP have equal share of ownership of the BIFPCL commercial joint venture, and equally provide 20% equity for this project (together USD 400 million).

The remaining debt of 80% is provided by Indian Export-Import Bank: the Indian Export Credit Agency finances the project with USD 1.6 billion.

The Bangladeshi government issued a sovereign guarantee amounting to 70% of the project cost, in order to assure returned investment to overseas lending groups. Additionally, the joint venture company will enjoy a 15-year tax holiday.

Institution type
Finance type
Year

The World Bank and Asian Development Bank declined to finance the project, so BIFPCL has decided to take Export Credit Agency (ECA) loans which involve high interest rates. 

Previously, three French banks, Crédit Agricole, BNP Paribas and Société Générale, said they would not invest in the plant, after it was found that the proposed project failed to meet minimum environmental and social standards.

Companies

Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company Limited

Bangladesh
Profile
Joint venture made of state owned electricity provider from Bangladesh (Bangladesh Power Development Board) and from India (National Thermal Power Corporation). The split is 50:50 and both companies will provide the 20% equity (each partner providing half). BIFCPL is the project sponsor.

Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB)

Bangladesh
Profile
Implementing partner from Bangladesh, part of the Bangladesh India Friendship Power Company joint venture. The public sector organisation is responsible for major portion of generation and distribution of electricity in the country.

Bharat Heavy Electricals

India
Website
Constructing company.

National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)

India
Profile
Website
Implementing partner from India, part of the Bangladesh India Friendship Power Company joint venture. The company will also operate the plant. Since the public sector operates most of the existing coal-fired power plants in India, NTPC is the largest power utility in India.

Price Waterhouse Coopers

India
Website
Contracted for providing solutions for long term coal sourcing, maritime transportation, transshipment, inland water transport and logistics.
No companies
Governance
Norms & standards

Applicable norms and standards

Bangladesh Wild Life Preservation Act
Constitution of Bangladesh
Convention on Wetlands of International Importance
Equator Principles
Policy, Law and Administration for Protected Area Management in Bangladesh
Ramsar Convention
Technical EIA Guidance Manual for Thermal Power Plants
UNESCO World Heritage Convention
News
BankTrack
Partners
Blog
External
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Hasina, Modi to inaugurate Rampal plant from India

2022-08-01 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal coal power plant needs more time

2021-05-26 | The Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Kerry questions coal-fired power plant near Sundarbans

2021-04-14 | Prothomalo.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Power Generation in Bangladesh: Important facts to look at

2021-02-28 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh Coal Plants Threaten World’s Largest Mangrove Forest

2020-06-18 | Human Rights Watch
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Nat’l Committee demands public health safety, cancellation of Rampal, Rooppur projects

2020-06-14 | United News of Bangladesh
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Climate justice is racial justice

2020-06-04 | Eco-Business
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sundarbans mangrove forest protects Bangladesh from the worst of Cyclone Amphan

2020-05-28 | Lifegate
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Indians at Rampal power plant launch protest to go home

2020-05-17 | Bangladesh | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

China scrubs its coal projects from ‘world heritage in danger’ decision

2019-07-05 | Climate Home News
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

UNESCO fails to condemn new coal plants threatening Sundarbans mangrove forests of Bangladesh

2019-07-04 | 350.org
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

UNESCO meeting to evaluate Sunderbans’ status

2019-06-30 | NEW AGE Bangladesh
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal Power Plant: 2 workers killed as container falls on them

2019-03-04 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Why the Sunderbans and Royal Bengal Tiger are in danger

2018-11-21 | dailyO
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Worker electrocuted at Rampal power plant project site

2018-09-01 | Daily Sun
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Despite Opposition, Work on Controversial Rampal Power Project Continues

2018-04-24 | The Wire
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Vessel with 775MT coal sinks in Sundarbans

2018-04-15 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

‘Yes’ to life: people’s movement to save the Sunderbans

2017-12-17 | New Age
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Report Shines a Light on Hidden Backers of World’s Most Destructive Coal Project

2017-10-12 | Inclusive Development International
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal plant to affect Sundarbans’ wildlife, aquatic resources: Report

2017-06-10 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal Power Plant: Myths debunked

2017-06-01 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Norway Wealth Fund drops Bharat Heavy on environmental risk

2017-05-05 | Bloomberg
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Greenpeace: Rampal plant could cause 6,000 early deaths

2017-05-05 | Dhaka Tribune / Agence France Presse
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Ex-Im Bank of India confirms $1.6bn loan for Rampal coal plant to bankroll Sundarbans destruction

2017-04-11 | Nijmegen, the Netherlands | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Al Gore and Bangladesh PM spar over coal plants in the Sundarbans

2017-03-30 | Mongabay
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Environmentalists pen open letter on coal power plants to Bangladesh, India

2017-03-30 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladeshi and Indian prime ministers urged to protect Sundarbans from coal-fired power plant

More than 70 non-governmental organisations from around the world have called for the cancellation of the proposed Rampal coal power plant, in an open letter to the governments of Bangladesh and India.
2017-03-30 | Protect the Forest
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Another coal barge sinks in the Sundarbans World Heritage site

2017-01-16 | EcoWatch
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Another shipping disaster in the Sundarbans

2017-01-16 | thethirdpole.net
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal financing still in the balance as double standards mount

2016-12-21 | Greig Aitken – BankTrack
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Top US and UK banks urged not to help bankroll destructive Rampal coal plant in Bangladesh

2016-12-08 | Nijmegen, the Netherlands | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Anti-Rampal activists announce series of protests

2016-11-27 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Nat’l committee calls hartal in Dhaka on Jan 26

2016-11-26 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Greens call six-hour shutdown on Jan 26 demanding scrap of Rampal project

2016-11-26 | New Age Bangladesh
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

A requiem for the Sundarbans

2016-11-06 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rich Countries Are Still Pushing Dirty Energy on Poor Ones

2016-10-30 | Dhaka | Takepart
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

UN urges Bangladesh to scrap coal plant near world's largest mangrove

2016-10-20 | Mashable
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

UNESCO recommends cancellation of Rampal coal plant in Bangladesh, increasing reputation risk for Ex-Im Bank of India 

2016-10-18 | Nijmegen, the Netherlandss | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh is building a dirty and expensive coal plant next to the world’s largest mangrove forest

2016-09-27 | The Conversation
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Unesco calls for shelving Rampal project

2016-09-24 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Unesco calls for revised EIA

2016-09-21 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

How green are green bonds?

2016-09-14 | Climate2020
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Debate over Rampal: 10 questions - authorities answers, counter response

2016-09-07 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

NTPC plans to become biggest renewable energy company in 10 years

2016-08-18 | The Economic Times
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal coal plant: Indian coal dream fast becoming a nightmare for Bangladesh

2016-08-11 | The Ecologist
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

The devil in development

2016-08-04 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Why Rampal?

2016-08-04 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Indian Peoples Movements and Civil Society Groups condemn the attack on Save-Sundarbans protesters

2016-08-03 | Financial Accountability
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Exim Bank raises $1 bn from overseas bonds

2016-07-31 | The Hindu Business Line
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

A Paradise in Peril

2016-07-29 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

BNP alleges Rampal power plant being built for neighbouring country's interest

2016-07-29 | Business Insider
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Police disperse protesters opposing power plant near Sundarbans

2016-07-28 | BDnews24
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

March to PMO foiled, 6 held from ‘Save Sundarbans’ demo

2016-07-28 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

A death sentence for the Sundarbans

2016-07-27 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

The Death of World Heritage Sites

2016-07-22 | Project Syndicate
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

A new power plant could devastate the world’s largest mangrove forest

2016-07-18 | The Washington Post
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

We must save Sundarbans: Big mistake for India

2016-07-16 | New Nation
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Scrap Rampal power deal

2016-07-14 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

BIFPCL Signs Contract Agreement for Main Plant EPC (Turnkey) Package of 2x660 MW Maitree Super Thermal Power Project at Bangladesh

2016-07-14 | NTPC
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal plant's wheels set in motion

2016-07-13 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rising coal production pushes India to look at export

2016-07-05 | The Times of India
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal plant likely to dominate Indo-Bangla power meeting

2016-07-04 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sundarbans: A fight for survival.

2016-06-30 | 350.org
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

The foreign aid conumdrum

2016-06-30 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

US Exim bank urged to refrain from financing

2016-06-29 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

PM blames BNP for secret killings

2016-06-29 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Over 150,000 call on U.S. Export Import Bank to reject coal, #SaveSundarbans

2016-06-28 | Friends of the Earth U.S.
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

The India-Bangladesh Rampal Power Project Is A Waste Of Resources. Here's An Alternative

2016-06-24 | Huffington Post India
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladeshi activist seeks Indian co-operation to save Sundarbans from Rampal

2016-06-23 | Business Standard
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Exim Bank seeks equity infusion to be enhanced to Rs 1,300 cr

2016-06-22 | Business Standard
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Govt ignores Rampal concerns

2016-06-20 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal power cost to rise significantly

2016-06-18 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Delhi-Dhaka power project headed for financial mess: Think tank

2016-06-18 | Business Standard
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

NTPC's Bangladesh project puts Exim Bank's global credibility at risk: IEEFA

2016-06-17 | Business Standard
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

A Step Backward for Bangladesh

2016-06-17 | Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Indian supplier for Rampal plant to get tax exemption

2016-06-14 | Dhaka Tribune
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

New report finds banks betting on climate change

Seventh annual bank finance Report Card reveals major banks poured hundreds of billions into extreme fossil fuels
2016-06-14 | Nijmegen, San Francisco | BankTrack, Rainforest Action Network, Sierra Club and Oil Change International
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

NTPC shareholders urged to push for Rampal coal plant to be dropped

BankTrack appeals to 50+ shareholders in India’s National Thermal Power Corporation to seek withdrawal NTPC from Rampal coal power plant threatening Bangladesh’s Sundarbans forest.
2016-06-13 | Nijmegen, the Netherlands | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal plant yet to get environmental clearance

2016-06-10 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Coal India hopes to win orders from Bangladesh

2016-05-31 | Business Standard
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Exim Bank of India - stop support for the Rampal Coal Power plant!

2016-05-26 | The Ecologist
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

CIL eyes export market in Bangladesh

2016-05-26 | Economic Times
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Destroying our lifeline

2016-05-20 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

TIB calls for fresh impact assessment engaging int'l experts

2016-05-20 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Long march planned against Rampal project

2016-05-14 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal Power Plant: Indian bank urged not to finance it

2016-05-13 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Pashur river to be dredged

2016-05-11 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

International coalition issues urgent appeal to save Bangladeshs people and tigers from Rampal coal plant

2016-05-11 | Waterkeeper Alliance
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

International coalition issues urgent appeal to save Bangladesh´s people and tigers from coal

Over 70 NGOs from 29 countries send urgent appeal to Exim Bank of India not to finance Rampal coal plant
2016-05-09 | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal Power plant: There’ll be no environmental hazard, says minister

2016-05-04 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Preserving or destroying the Sundarbans?

2016-05-04 | Daily Sun
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Salvage operation begins in Shela 40 days after cargo sinks

2016-04-28 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

BIFPCL offers funds for wildlife conservation in Sundarbans

2016-04-26 | Daily Sun
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Vessel owners, cargo traders trivialise Sundarbans

2016-04-20 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Global call to Exim Bank of India to Stop support for the Rampal Coal Power plant

2016-04-19 | ECA Watch
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Breaking Free from the Grips of Coal

2016-04-19 | Huffpost Green
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh set to pursue coal-power push despite opposition

2016-04-14 | Reuters
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

25 coal-fired power plants by 2022 despite opposition

2016-04-14 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal plant deal likely this month

2016-04-09 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Nine Projects Get Purchase Body Nod

2016-04-06 | Energy Bangla
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

No effort to salvage sunken vessel from river in Sundarbans in 15 days

2016-04-04 | bdnews24.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

A Growing Movement To #SaveSundarbans

2016-04-03 | Sierra Club
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Unesco report may not be accurate

2016-04-03 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Activists doubt Unesco’s upcoming Sundarbans report

2016-04-02 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Thousands in Bangladesh march across 155 miles against threatening coal projects

2016-03-25 | Friends of the Earth
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Shela ban is permanent

2016-03-24 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

The last of the Tigers

2016-03-23 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Permanent ban on plying of cargo vessels on Shela River in Sundarbans

2016-03-23 | bdnews24.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

An open letter to the visiting UNESCO team

2016-03-23 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Project of mass destruction

2016-03-23 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Protecting the Sundarbans is our national duty

2016-03-22 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

People's movements in India and Bangladesh join hands to save Sunderbans

2016-03-22 | Merinews
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Govt bans Shela route

2016-03-22 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Winning the battle

2016-03-22 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Forest Dept seeks Tk 50 million in damages for vessel capsize in Sundarbans

2016-03-21 | bdews24
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Fully Loaded, Coal-Laden Vessel Sinks in the Sundarbans

2016-03-21 | Waterkeeper Alliance
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

No power plant at the cost of the Sundarbans

2016-03-20 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Strong presence of oil in Sundarbans

2016-03-20 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Coal-laden cargo sinks in Sundarbans

2016-03-19 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Why power plants near the Sundarbans?

2016-03-18 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

World’s Largest Mangrove Forest In Danger As Huge Coal Plant Comes To Bangladesh

2016-03-16 | Think Progress
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

‘Long March’ in Bangladesh urges protection of Sundarbans forests from pollution

2016-03-15 | Earthjustice
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

'Rampal plant being established complying int'l standard'

2016-03-14 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Save the Sundarbans vs. How to Save the Sundarbans

2016-03-11 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

$2b Indian credit line opens for Bangladesh

2016-03-10 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

‘Long march to save Sundarbans' begins

2016-03-10 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Fighting Big Coal in Bangladesh

2016-03-10
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladeshis launch 400km march against coal plants

2016-03-10 | Al Jazeera
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh coal projects put human health and pivotal ecosystem at risk

2016-03-09 | Friend of the Earth
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Civic forum gearing up for Rampal march

2016-03-08 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Thousands to march against coal plant threat to Bangladesh's Sundarbans forest

2016-03-02 | The Guardian
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Coal plants threaten tigers, dolphins and people

2016-02-25 | Earthjustice blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Indian firm wins contract to build Rampal power plant

2016-02-23 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Maitree Project's financial closure expected by October

2016-02-21 | Economic Times India
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh sticks with coal power plant project despite major backlash

2016-02-16 | Mongabay
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Power plants near Sundarbans

2016-02-15 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal power plant to be commissioned despite risk to ecology

2016-02-15 | bdnews24.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

NCPS seeks UN-led EIA to protect Rampal project

2016-02-14 | New Nation
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Go for fresh impact study by UN team

2016-02-14 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal power plant is being built to please India, says Rizvi

2016-02-13 | bdnews24.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Rampal plant the final nail in the Sundarbans’ coffin

2016-02-13 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Unesco to assess Rampal power plant's impacts on Sundarbans

2016-02-12 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Long March On March 10-15 For Rampal

2016-01-14 | Energy Bangla
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh coal power plans stall

2016-01-04 | Climate Home
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Coal power loses steam

2016-01-03 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sundarbans in Peril

2016-01-01 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Low-lying Bangladesh targets jump in coal use

2015-12-30 | Financial Times
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

BHEL Will Get Rampal Power Plant Project

2015-12-28 | Energy Bangla
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh, India to jointly conserve Sundarbans

2015-12-14 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sundarban steals the show at Paris COP 21 meet

2015-12-10 | The daily observer
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Coal plant threatens world's largest mangrove forest – and Bangladesh's future

2015-12-10 | The Ecologist
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Protecting Sundarbans: How Serious Are We?

2015-12-09 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladeshi protest intensifies against Rampal coal plant

2015-11-03 | Climate Home
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Coal-laden vessel sinks in Passur near Sundarbans

2015-10-28 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Police have duty to defend not obstruct people’s right to protest

2015-10-20 | Tribune editorial
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Police charge batons, bars Sundarban road march

2015-10-17 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Installing rail line to Rampal PP for carrying coal sought

2015-10-05 | Daily Sun
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Hundreds join ‘Save Sundarbans’ long march

2015-09-24 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Let the money talk: Where Rampal truly stands

2015-08-12 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Tiger, tiger burning bright

2015-07-31 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Wild Bengal Tigers On The Verge Of Extinction

2015-07-30 | The Inquisitir
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bengal tigers under threat: Only 106 left in the Bangladesh Sundarbans Forest

2015-07-30 | International Political Forum
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Only 100 tigers left in Bangladesh's famed Sundarbans forest

2015-07-27 | AFP
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh finds only 100 Bengal tigers in Sunderbans

2015-07-27 | BBC
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

SUNDARBANS UNDER THREAT

2015-07-25 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Electricity not at the cost of Sundarbans

2015-07-22 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

UNESCO team to visit Rampal power plant site

2015-07-16 | The New Nation
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Govt didn't seek funds from French banks for Rampal power plant

2015-07-14 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Power Division rubbishes reports that foreign banks spurned Rampal

2015-07-12 | Dhaka Tribune
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Questions over Rampal coal-fired power plant in Bangladesh

2015-07-07 | Daily Star, Bangladesh
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Govt co to pre-finance controversial Rampal power plant

2015-07-06 | The Financial Express
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Stop Rampal power plant project

2015-07-06 | The Daily Star
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

New UNESCO warning to potential financiers of Rampal coal plant

2015-07-06 | Bonn, Germany | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Opinion: Real Crocodile tears in the Sundarbans

2015-06-30 | The Daily Star
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh coal plant “non-compliant with Equator Principles” shows new BankTrack analysis

“Big Three” French banks ruled out financing for Rampal project near Sundarbans World Heritage mangrove forest
2015-06-29 | Nijmegen | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

French banks’ refusal to fund Rampal power plant

2015-06-28 | The New Nation
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Double-blow to Rampal power plant project

2015-06-27 | The Daily Observer
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

French banks say no to Bangladesh coal plant

BankTrack mentioned
2015-06-25 | The Guardian
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Road Shows Abroad to Collect Funds for Rampal

2015-06-20 | Energy Bangla
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

BNP asks govt to scrap coal-fired power project near Sundarbans

2015-06-12 | bdnews24
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

“Bangladesh should not waste her scarce clean water resources in coal-fired power plants.”

2015-06-11 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

India PM Modi endorses controversial Sundarbans coal plant

2015-06-08 | Climate Home
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Call to cancel Rampal power plant project

2015-06-04 | The Financial Express
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

BNP Paribas AGM: time to quit coal!

2015-05-13 | Paris | Les Amis de la Terre
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Fertilizer-filled vessel sinks in Sundarbans

2015-05-10 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sunken vessel in Sundarbans yet to be salvaged

2015-05-09 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

After Oil Spill, Unique Mangrove Forest Faces More Threats

2015-05-07 | National Geographic
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Norwegian pension fund gives clear message to banks on Rampal – stay out

2015-03-19 | End Coal
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Norway Sovereign Fund drops Indian coal mining firms

2015-03-16 | The Economic Times
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Norway may pull investment from Indian firm over Bangladesh coal plant

2015-03-10 | The Guardian
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sundarbans still reeling from effects of December oil spill

2015-01-21 | mongabay.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

NTPC to invite tenders for $1.2 billion Bangladesh joint venture power project

2015-01-13 | Economic Times
Blog
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

“Big Three” French banks rule out financing for Rampal coal project

2015 | BankTrack
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

No capacity to tackle oil spills

2014-12-16 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

India on high alert after massive oil spill threatens Sunderbans ecology

2014-12-15 | Down To Earth
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Children ‘clean’ oil spill with kitchen utensils in the Sundarbans

2014-12-15 | Mongabay
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh oil spill 'threatens rare dolphins'

2014-12-11 | The Guardian
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

UN concerned about Sundarbans oil spill

2014-12-11 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Oil spill on a Sundarbans river triggers environment concerns

2014-12-10 | bdsnews24
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Financing hitch stalls progress

2014-11-30 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Sundarbans may lose its heritage status: UNESCO

2014-11-30 | Prothom Alo
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh Vows to Protect Wild Tigers in Spite of Industrialization

2014-09-17 | National Geographic
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Why should Matarbari project cost $4.4b?

2014-06-21 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Bangladesh's Coal Dellusion

2014-03-04 | The New York TImes
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

World's most vulnerable nation to climate change turns to coal power

2013-11-18 | Mongabay.com
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

The Biggest Mangrove Forest in the World Is About to Be Destroyed by Coal

2013-11-01 | Motherboard
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

Hundreds join ‘Save Sundarbans’ long march

2013-09-24 | The Daily Star
BankTrack news BankTrack blog Partner news Partner blog

NTPC and Bangladesh PDB to cooperate in Power Sector

2010-08-30 | NTPC
Resources
Documents
Images
Videos
Links
2017-03-30 00:00:00

Open letter: Protect Sundarbans from coal-fired power plants

Addressed to the presidents, prime ministers, ministers of state and ministers of Bangladesh and India
NGO document
2017-03-30 00:00:00 | Protect the Forest
2015-07-10 00:00:00

Bangladesh Sundarbans: Present Status of the Environment and Biota

Other document
2015-07-10 00:00:00 | Diversity (Journal from MDPI)
2015-09-17 00:00:00

Report of the Fact Finding Mission to Rampal, Bangladesh

NGO document
2015-09-17 00:00:00 | South Asians for Human Rights
2020-06-05 00:00:00

World Heritage Watch Report 2020

NGO document
2020-06-05 00:00:00 | World Heritage Watch
2018-05-07 00:00:00

Letter from BankTrack to UNESCO and the World Heritage Programme on the Sundarbans of Bangladesh

Correspondence
2018-05-07 00:00:00 | BankTrack
2016-12-08 00:00:00

Letter from 53 organisations to 5 banks on Exim India bonds

Correspondence
2016-12-08 00:00:00 | 53 organisations
2016-10-07 00:00:00

Summary of independent expert analyses of the Rampal Power Plant

NGO document
2016-10-07 00:00:00 | National Committee for Saving the Sundarbans
2016-09-06 00:00:00

Rebuttal of the National Committee for Saving the Sundarbans (NCSS) to the Maitree Power Plant Authority’s 10 Point Q&A of July 2016

NGO document
2016-09-06 00:00:00 | National Committee for Saving the Sundarbans
2016-06-17 00:00:00

Risky and Over-Subsidized: A Financial Analysis of the Rampal Power Plant

Other document
2016-06-17 00:00:00
2016-05-10 00:00:00

Letter from BankTrack to Exim Bank of India on Abandoning Rampal financing plans

Correspondence
2016-05-10 00:00:00 | BankTrack
2016-02-01 00:00:00

World Heritage Committee petition

NGO document
2016-02-01 00:00:00 | Earthjustice
2015-06-24 00:00:00

Equator Principles analysis of the Rampal coal-fired power plant project, Bangladesh

BankTrack publication
2015-06-24 00:00:00 | BankTrack
2015-05-12 00:00:00

Rampal EP analysis

Executive Summary
BankTrack publication
2015-05-12 00:00:00 | BankTrack
2015-05-04 00:00:00

The end of coal?

2015 Coal Finance Report Card
BankTrack publication
2015-05-04 00:00:00 | BankTrack, Rainforest Action Network, Sierra Club
2015-04-16 00:00:00

Transparency International Bangladesh report on Rampal & Matarbari

NGO document
2015-04-16 00:00:00
2015-04-12 00:00:00

SAHR Statement on the Fact finding mission to Rampal

NGO document
2015-04-12 00:00:00
2015-02-18 00:00:00

Sundarbans Oil Spill Assessment

Joint United Nations-Government of Bangladesh Mission
Other document
2015-02-18 00:00:00 | UN & Bangladeshi governement
2014-12-01 00:00:00

Annual Report: Council on Ethics for the Norwegian Pension Fund

Other document
2014-12-01 00:00:00
2014-10-30 00:00:00

Environmental Impact of Coal based Power Plant of Rampal on the Sundarbans and Surrounding areas

Other document
2014-10-30 00:00:00 | Dr. Abdullah Harun Chowdhury
2013-12-01 00:00:00

Move Beyond Coal

The Global Movement in 2013
NGO document
2013-12-01 00:00:00 | The Sierra Club

Long March to Save the Sundarbans 2016

2016-03-10

Pictures of the Sundarbans

2014-10-30

UNESCO: protect the Sundarbans, not coal!

2017-07-28 09:54:08

Delivering thousands of #SaveHeritageSites messages at UNESCO

2017-07-28 09:52:22

UNESCO: help us stop coal and save World Heritage

2017-07-28 09:50:31

Documentary on the local protest against this power plant

2014-10-30 21:52:05

Video links

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/03/bangladesh-protests-coal-power-plant-160313143608747.html

National Committee of Bangladesh

UNESCO Sundarbans webpage

Long live Sundarbans

Documentary on the long march to protect the Sundarbans

Waiting to Vanish

Powerful photographs of climate change affects Bangladeshi villagers

Ramsar Wetland Convention: Sundarbans forest

Avaaz petition to save the Bengal Tiger

UNESCO: Stop The Coal Plant, Save The Sundarbans

Assembly to save Sundarban (in pictures)

Pictures by Jagoroniya.com

26th Grand Gathering at Shahi

Photo impression of 26th Grand Gathering at Shahi

Global Energy Monitor page on Rampal power station

Long March to Save the Sundarbans

Multimedia coverage of the Long March to Save the Sundarbans by 350.org

Updates

2021

2021-05-26 00:00:00 | Construction of Rampal coal power plant delayed

The authorities of the 1320MW coal power plant in Rampal of Bagerhat, near the Sundarbans, may need more time to complete the project despite being given one additional year. It was supposed to be completed by December last year, but the government was forced to extend the deadline till December this year as they failed to meet the deadline. Yet, the progress of the "Maitree Super Thermal Power Project" was only 65% as of April (Dhaka Tribune).

2021-04-14 00:00:00 | John Kerry questions coal-fired power plant near Sundarbans

The Bangladesh government has taken up various initiatives to protect the Sundarbans. At the same time, it is setting up a coal-fired power plant near this mangrove forest. Experts have repeatedly said that this power plant will put the mangrove forest at risk, but the government has paid no heed. US president Joe Biden’s special envoy for climate change, John Kerry, is confused over this contradictory stance of the government concerning the Sundarbans (Prothomalo.com).

2020

2020-06-18 00:00:00 | Human Rights Watch: Bangladesh coal plants threaten world's largest mangrove forest

On June 18 2020, Human Rights Watch stated in a press release that the coal plants currently under construction in Bangladesh will threaten the Sundarbans. Its press release comes just after Cyclone Amphan made landfall on the India-Bangladesh coast. The cyclone was the most powerful to strike the Bay of Bengal in 20 years. The cyclone ripped off roofs, washed away homes and flooded farms. Besides a robust emergency response system mitigating impacts, coastal communities were protected by the country's natural storm shield: the Sundarbans. The Human Rights Watch calls upon the government of Bangladesh to act swiftly to protect the mangroves. If it will not, it risks making the climate crisis worse while being faced with extreme weather events without having its natural defense system. Read the press release here.

2020-06-14 00:00:00 | National Committee demands cancellation of Rampal project

The National Committee to Protect Oil-Gas, Mineral Resources and Power-Port recently demanded a cancellation of the Rampal project. Combined with other demands, such as ensuring healthcare service and food security for all as well as the cancellation of the Rooppur nuclear project, the commitee placed a 6-point demand during an online press conference. A Member Secretary of the Committee said that the committee will organise a global solidarity meeting on July 4 involving experts and expatriate Bangladeshis over their demands. Read more here.

2020-05-17 00:00:00 | Indian workers at the Rampal power plant stage demonstration

On May 17th, 400 Indian workers at the Rampal power plant staged a demonstration to return to their homeland. The workers could not return to India as they could not renew their passports because of the countrywide shutdown. Besides that, the workers said they are deprived of decent food and they were not paid in full.

2019

2019-07-04 00:00:00 | UNESCO meeting: Sundarbans not on list of world heritage sites in danger

During the UNESCO world heritage committee meeting on July 4, 2019, it was decided that the Sundarbans were not to be included on the list of world heritage sites in danger. China, backed by Cuba and Bosnia and Herzegovina, placed a new proposal to keep the largest mangrove forest from the list while deleting any mention of Chinese-financed coal projects nearby the Sundarbans from the draft text. In an earlier draft, the committee stated it regretted the construction of the Rampal power plant and also expressed its concern about the proposed projects at Taltoli and Kolopara. These texts were removed by the Chinese amendment. The final text that was agreed upon unanimously by the committee only included a note that large scale industrial projects likely have environmental impacts and asked Bangladesh to take all necessary mitigation measures.

2019-06-08 00:00:00 | BIFPCL taking bids for coal delivery

In June 2019, BIFPCL began taking bids for coal delivery for the power plant. It was reported that coal will be coming from Indonesia, South Africa and Australia.

2019-06-08 00:00:00 | Construction progress and fatal incidents

In April 2017, it was reported that the construction of the Rampal power plant started. The project timeframe was is at 41 months.

In March 2018, work progress was reported to be just 5% and the plant was planned to be in operation in 2022.

In September 2018, a 17-year-old worker was electrocuted at the construction site.

In March 2019, two workers were killed at the construction site.

2017

2017-04-11 00:00:00 | Ex-Im Bank extends a term loan of USD 1.6 billion to the Bangladesh India Friendship Power Company Pvt. Ltd.. (BIFPCL)

Export-Import Bank of India has extended a term loan of USD 1.6 billion to the Bangladesh India Friendship Power Company Pvt. Ltd. [BIFPCL, a 50:50 joint venture between the Bangladesh Power Development Board, Bangladesh and NTPC Ltd., India] for financing the 1,320 MW [2*660 MW] ultra-super-critical Maitree Super Thermal Power Project on Turnkey Basis at Rampal, District-Bagerhat, Bangladesh.

2016

2016-07-18 00:00:00 | Bharat Heavy Electrical Ltd. signed EPC contract

The Indian company won the bid to construct the Rampal power plant back in January 2016, but did not accept the initial contract. BHEL's demand for a tax exemption contract caused friction among Bangladeshi institutions and lasted close to half a year. On July 13th, BIFCPL and BHEL signed the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract. Activists in Bangladesh responded questioning whose interest are really being served, they held mobilisations and called for a referendum on the construction of the plant. The issue was picked up internationally.

2016-06-22 00:00:00 | Report on financial risks of Rampal project

On the 17th of June, the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) launched a report outlining the numerous financial risks the Rampal project will bring to all stakeholders involved. The report was widely covered, and raised the numerous threats the Rampal plant brings. The head of Ex-Im Bank of India admitted that they ''might take a reputation risk''.

2016-05-09 00:00:00 | Global call on Ex-Im Bank of India to stop finance plans for Rampal

A global coalition including BankTrack, Greenpeace International, 350.org, Rainforest Action Network, and Indian and Bangladeshi civil society groups today issued an urgent appeal to the Export-Import Bank of India to abandon its plans to finance the construction of the Rampal coal power plant in Bangladesh and save the world-renowned Sundarbans wetlands from destruction.    

2016-04-26 00:00:00 | BHEL started work before signing EPC contract

The EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) contract is likely to be signed in the month of April, formally making Indian BHEL the building company. According to the Daily Sun, BHEL has already started their work before signing the contract.

2016-04-03 00:00:00 | UNESCO report may not be accurate

The UNESCO team toured Bangladesh, including the Sundarbans, from March 22-28. Their tour was scheduled by the government. In those days the three members of the mission did not meet any of the groups opposing the Rampal power plant and the industrialisation of the Sundarbans. Expectations are that the report will be one-sided.

2016-03-19 00:00:00 | Fourth vessel sinks spreading additional toxic pollutants in Sundarbans rivers

The Sea Horse, a large bulk cargo vessel carrying 1,245 metric tons of coal, sank in the Shela River in the Sundarbans. This marks the fourth incident in two years. An oil tanker carrying 350,000 litres of furnace oil sunk in that same river in December 2014. Poor response from government saw villagers cleaning the mess. Two other vessels spread coal and toxic fertilizer in other parts of the forest. This marks how ill-prepared the authorities are, the Sea horse vessel remains at the bottom of the Shela river for more than 40 days until salvage operation starts.

2016-03-15 00:00:00 | Thousands take part in Long March to Save the Sundarbans

From 10-13 March, thousands have joined a march from Dhaka to Khulna to Save the Sundarbans. A large number of civil society groups, students, unions, an Indian solidarity group and people from all paths of life voiced that there is no alternative to the Sundarbans. This sign of protest against indutrialisation of the largest mangrove forest was captured by numerous local and international media outlets (see News section).

2016-03-10 00:00:00 | Indian Ex-Im bank to finance Rampal

Indian Export-Import Bank is in the process of extending a Buyer's Credit of USD 1.6 billion to BIFCPL for financing the 1,320 MW Maitree Super Thermal Power Project in Bangladesh.

2016-02-14 00:00:00 | Demand for a UN-led committee to conduct EIA

The National Committee to Protect Sundarbans demanded suspension of all development activities of Rampal power plant and the adjacent private Orion power plant until a fresh environment impact assessment (EIA) is done by a United Nations-led neutral team.

2016-01-18 00:00:00 | Indian BHEL to operate Rampal

Out of the three bidders, BHEL was formally announced as the operating company. This means it will have to arrange finance with Indian Ex-Im Bank, the national Export Credit Agency.

2015

2015-10-28 00:00:00 | Coal vessel capsizes in Passur river

A vessel carrying 510 tons of coal capsized in the Passur river, by the Sundarbans. A forest officer said the coal might harm the ecosystem of the Sundarbans.

2015-10-23 00:00:00 | Bangladeshi protest intensifies against Rampal coal plant

A number of leaders and activists face violence during the ‘Dhaka-Sunderbans road march’ rally on the 16th and 17th Otober. Participants signalled that protest will intensify if the government does not stop the planned coal power plant.

2015-09-23 00:00:00 | Three bidders for Rampal

There are currently three bidders for the Rampal project:
- Consortium of Marubeni Corporation of Japan and Lersen & Toubro Ltd of India;
- Consortium of Harbin Electric International Company Ltd of China, ALSTOM of France and Jiangsu Etern Company Ltd of China;
- Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), India.

2015-06-25 00:00:00 | French banks say no to Rampal

Crédit Agricole, Société Générale and BNP Paribas have said no to the Rampal coal power plant project in Bangladesh, reveals the Guardian.

2015-06-08 00:00:00 | Narendra Modi endorses Rampal coal plant

During his visit to Bangladesh, Indian prime minister Narendra Modi endorsed the Rampal plans, assuring support and cooperation. Modi and Sheikh Hasina gave the green light on behalf of India and Bangladesh.

2015-05-09 00:00:00 | Sunken vessel spreads fertiliser through Sundarbans' rivers

The cargo vessel - 'Jabalenoor' - was carrying about 200 tonnes of potash fertiliser, giving the rivers a red hue as it dissolves through the mangrove forest. Only six months after an tanker pilled oil in these riveers, the incident sheds light on the urgent necessity for putting a complete ban on plying of cargo vessels through endangered forests.

2015-03-16 00:00:00 | Norwegian Pension Fund will not fund Rampal

After thorough study of the Rampal project the Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global reached the conclusion that the environmental damages are unacceptable. As a result of its coal divestment measure, the fund dropped NTPC among other Indian companies from its portfolio.

2014

2014-12-12 00:00:00 | Oil spill in the Sundarbans

On 9th of December an oil tanker partly sank spilling oil over 60 km in the Sundarbans. The accident occurred inside one of three sanctuaries set up for endangered Irrawadi an Ganges dolphins. This spill will gravely affect a delicate and unique ecoystem. Bangladesh officials called it an "ecological catastrophe", the Wildlife Conservation Society representative thinks of it more as a "national disaster".
Meanwhile the efforts to build the Rampal coal power plant go on, with plans to use these same rivers to carry coal upstream to the plant.

2014-06-18 00:00:00 | UNESCO concern

UNESCO published a State of Conservation report on Sundarbans and expressed its concern on the Rampal coal power plant project.

2013

2013-10-24 00:00:00 | The Long March to Save the Sundarbans

The National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas and Mineral Resources, Power and Ports organised a five-day, 400-kilometre march from Dhaka to Rampal. Many groups and thousands of people joined, all walking to save the Sundarbans: to stop the Rampal coal-fired power plant and all activities that would destroy the Sundarbans.

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