Bangladesh to launch Bangabandhu Satellite-2 in 2023
Bangladesh is getting ready to launch its second satellite "Bangabandhu Satellite-2" by 2023. Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) signed an agreement with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) at its head office today.
BSCL Managing Director Shahriar Ahmed Chowdhury and PwC Global Space Practice Leader Luigi Scatteia signed the agreement on behalf of their respective sides.
Shahriar said the PwC would submit their recommendations within the next 90 days. "Then_ we'll hand it over to the government_" he said.
BSCL Chairman Shahjahan Mahmood said they can estimate cost after getting recommendations from the company. "We received 21 consulting companies' applications. Later_ we selected PwC considering reasonable cost and good company_" he added.
"Our work was delayed seven months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However_ the satellite can be launched during the tenure of the incumbent government or by 2023_" he added.
Shahjahan said Bangladesh can reduce its dependency on foreign countries after launching the satellite and the country will be self-reliant in technology as well.
Post and Telecommunication Minister Mustafa Jabbar took part in the ceremony virtually. "When we launched Bangabandhu Satellite-1_ many people criticised us. Now_ the satellite is functioning properly. We're proud of it_" he said.
Jabbar said the satellite-2 won't be launched only for commercial purpose. It will cover in the country's remote areas including char and coastal sites as well. "Our capacity will double after launching the second satellite_" he said.
Chairman of Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Shyam Sunder Sikder_ PWC representative Suparna Roy_ Secretary of Post and Telecommunication Md Afzal Hossain_ among others_ were present at the signing ceremony.
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