The Energy and Mineral Resources Division has directed the strengthening of security measures at Key Point Installations (KPIs) and critical infrastructure under the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and Petrobangla. This initiative includes the installation of IP cameras in important facilities to ensure constant monitoring and enhanced security.
The directive, signed by S M Ferdous, Deputy Secretary (with additional responsibilities) of the Energy and Mineral Resources Division, was sent to the chairpersons of both entities on December 26. The letter emphasizes continuous monitoring of KPIs and critical infrastructure and mandates the installation of IP cameras with data storage systems. It also requires updates on the progress of these measures to be reported to the division.
Regarding the matter, S M Ferdous Islam told Bonik Barta, “The existing CCTV cameras at BPC and Petrobangla often malfunction during storms and heavy rain. The directive aims to ensure their proper functioning.” When asked whether the security measures were prompted by any specific threats, he said, “Security concerns are always present. However, the issuance of this letter was not necessarily driven by any such apprehension.”
A senior official from the division, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “The energy sector is a critical part of the country’s economy. This directive is aimed at preventing any accidents in these facilities. Additionally, in areas where security is relatively weaker, manpower-based monitoring is being increased. Officials have been instructed to remain vigilant for continuous monitoring.”
Petrobangla oversees 13 companies, including three involved in gas extraction, one in transmission, six in distribution, and three engaged in LNG, CNG, and LPG operations. Among the gas extraction companies, there are 29 gas fields, most of which are considered KPIs (Key Point Installations) or critical infrastructure. Additionally, there are several vital facilities dedicated to gas distribution and coal resource management, employing a significant number of local and foreign workers. To enhance security in these areas, Petrobangla has already issued directives to the respective companies.
Officials have stated that gas distribution and extraction companies have been verbally instructed to strengthen security measures. Additionally, companies have been directed to address manpower shortages in critical areas with urgency and ensure adequate arrangements are in place.
On behalf of the BPC (Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation), instructions have been issued to enhance security measures at KPIs and critical installations under its affiliated companies. This includes the installation of IP cameras to ensure continuous monitoring and overall strengthening of security systems. A total of 18 directives have been issued to BPC’s various offices and subsidiary organizations. These instructions require the installation of sufficient CCTV and IP cameras at BPC’s main office, regional offices of subsidiaries, fuel installations, and KPI-designated facilities, while ensuring adequate security arrangements. In addition to increasing security monitoring, BPC has directed subsidiaries to bolster security at fuel refineries, depots, pipelines, and all related facilities. Measures include deploying the army or police for guarding the areas with explosion risks, ensuring adequate fire safety measures at filling stations, limiting access to depots, and ensuring proper registration at depot gates. Furthermore, all buildings and facilities are to be inspected for electric switchboard safety, with instructions to replace or secure any faulty systems.
Additionally, BPC’s directives specify that companies should control office entry during working hours via e-gates or manual procedures and maintain a record of all entrants after office hours and on holidays, irrespective of rank. Finally, increased patrols and security for critical installations have been emphasized.
When contacted, Anupam Barua, Director (Operations and Transport) of BPC, stated, “The country’s energy facilities and depots are always at risk. Recent incidents, such as the Secretariat fire, have heightened concerns, prompting stricter security measures for fuel marketing companies. Where necessary, we’ve instructed the deployment of army or police forces to secure depots, pipelines, and refineries. While our security has always been stringent, companies are now required to submit progress reports to BPC on implementing these measures.”
Top officials of subsidiary companies have confirmed receiving security-related letters from the BPC. Md Tipu Sultan, Managing Director of Meghna Petroleum Limited, told Bonik Barta, “BPC and the Ministry of Energy have instructed us regarding strengthening security at our company’s main installations, depots, and other Key Point Installations (KPI)-designated critical facilities, including the installation of IP cameras and fire safety systems. Our establishments already maintain continuous security systems. Now that we have been directed to further strengthen our security, we are increasing safety measures. We will install CCTV cameras outside critical installations and monitor access to the facilities. Additionally, we have instructed our filling stations nationwide to enhance their own security measures.”
Ferdousi Masum Himel, CEO of Standard Asiatic Oil Company Limited (SAOCL), a subsidiary under BPC, told Bonik Barta, “After receiving the security-related instructions from BPC, we conducted on-site inspections of the company’s main installations, depots, pipelines, and other critical areas. Security measures had already been strengthened here, but we are now monitoring to ensure that all 18 instructions from BPC are being properly implemented. We are giving the issue of security the highest priority.”