Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN)- Bangladesh has suffered an economic loss to the tune of more than BDT 364 billion in 16 days of the nationwide blockade from January 5 to January 20, a leading trade body estimated.
The economic losses are around BDT 22. 77 billion each day due to strike, generally known as hartal, according to Hossain Khaled, president of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). "The losses we suffered in the 16 days' shutdowns are 2.697 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP).”
He also said that one day's GDP is equivalent to BDT 37.01 billion.
"Our businesses are not running well. We are at risk due to the ongoing political unrest. We want to get rid of such an unpleasant situation," the DCCI chief noted.
He also said the country's agriculture sector suffered a loss worth BDT 2.88 billion per day while the poultry industry incurred a loss worth BDT 182 million a day. Apart from it the housing sector's loss was estimated at BDT 2.5 billion each day due to the strike and blockade, the DCCI president added.
The DCCI urged the political parties to shun violence and destructive political activities. "Political movement should in no way turn violent. We expect a peaceful movement from political parties."
Mr. Khaled said dialogue is the only way to resolve the current political crisis. "Any pressure or force can't bring the desired solution.”
He proposed formation of a citizens' council with senior citizens, business representatives, media personnel, educationists and experts to deal with the current situation. "No one of the committee members should have political affiliation.”
BBN/SSR/AD-23Jan15-10:12 am (BST)