In a significant move towards sustainable industrial development, leading conglomerate PRAN-RFL Group announced plans to revive the long-defunct Rajshahi Textile Mills and turn it into Bangladesh’s largest environmentally friendly industrial park in the northern region.
During a ‘Meet the Press’ event held on Monday at a local hotel in Rajshahi, PRAN-RFL Group’s Marketing Director Kamruzzaman Kamal revealed that trial production has already commenced at the 26-acre facility, with a formal inauguration imminent. He stated that an investment of approximately Taka 350 crore is planned over the next two years to fully operationalise the project, which is expected to generate employment for around 12,000 people.
The revitalised factory will focus on the production of export-oriented goods, including bags, shoes, and ready-made garments. Kamal emphasised that the project aims to establish a fully sustainable green industrial park, equipped with solar energy systems, green zones, and water recycling facilities, aligning with environmental conservation goals.
Anisur Rahman, Executive Director of PRAN-RFL’s subsidiary Multi-Line Industries Limited, shared that the conglomerate signed an agreement with the Bangladesh Textile Mills Corporation in October last year to reopen the mills through a public-private partnership. He noted that within just three months, the group had begun trial operations by repairing and utilising an abandoned shed, creating jobs for approximately 1,000 local residents. Recruitment for an additional 1,000 workers is currently underway.
Looking ahead, Rahman highlighted plans to establish a modern call center and a skill development center within the mill premises to enhance the capabilities of local workers. He emphasised that one of the key objectives is to reduce migration to Dhaka by providing sustainable employment opportunities in Rajshahi. If successful, the company hopes to expand its operations further across the region.
This initiative marks a significant step towards environmentally conscious industrialisation in Bangladesh, fostering local employment and regional development.
