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Fresh attempt to lease profitable BPC motel in Sylhet

'Vested quarters lobbying'

Iqbal Siddiquee, sylhet
The authorities' move to lease out the profit-earning Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) motel in Sylhet has evoked a reaction from different quarters including politicalleaders.
The motel has been earning profit since its establishment in September 1993, an official said.
This is the third such move as two earlier attempts failed as 'suitable' parties were not found, the official said.
The hilltop motel on 40 acres of land along the Airport Road in the suburb of the divisional city sur-
rounded by scenic hillocks is attracting boarders since its inception. The motel was formally inaugurated in 1994.
However, last year, 13 acres from its land were handed over to a private party for setting up of a Shishu Park.
The motel near the Sylhet Cadet College attracts boarders as they can enjoy a panoramic view of the area. Officials at the motel said it earned reputation though it is understaffed and lacks some other facilities. TWenty- five people are now working in the motel against posts for57.
The initiative to lease the motel
for 15 years' was first taken in 2002. The attempt failed as the response was very poor with only five parties taking part in the bid.
z\s the authorities decided for a second attempt, one of the parties filed a case challenging the move. But a High Court verdict went against tlie petitioner.
The third tender was floated in November last year, inviting bids from business establishments including foreign firms having experience in running hotels and motels. Only five parties responded.
Any decision is yet to be taken.
Sources said a strong lobby is working to lease the motel to some
private party.
People prefer to stay at the motel due to its cheap rate and the scenic beauty around it.
President ofSyhet district Awami League ANM Shafique said the lone BPC motel in Sylhet region should not be leased to any private party. It is running well despite a lot of problems. Rather, it should be developed to attract more tourists including foreigners, he added.
Some businessmen this correspondent talked to said once leased, the cost will go up and inflow of boarders will decrease. Some vested quarters are trying to lease it only to earnproflt, theysaid.