Tamim Iqbal Calls for Collective Efforts to Restore Chattogram as a Sports Hub

A discussion meeting titled “Future of Sports in Chattogram” was held focusing on the development, challenges, and prospects of sports in Chattogram. The event took place on Saturday (February 1) at 3:30 pm at the Shaheed Fazlur Rahman Auditorium in the port city, where speakers emphasized the importance of collective initiatives to transform Chattogram into a modern sports city.

Renowned politician, sports patron, and sports enthusiast Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury attended the program as the chief guest and keynote speaker. The discussion was moderated by former Bangladesh national cricket team captain Tamim Iqbal, while sports organizer Sirajuddin Md. Alamgir conducted the session.

At the outset, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) councillor Israfil Khasru delivered the welcome address, highlighting the existing obstacles and potential for sports development in Chattogram. He presented a timely roadmap aimed at building Chattogram into a modern sports city, which received appreciation from the audience.

Speaking on behalf of sports organizers, veteran sports organizers Md. Hafizur Rahman and Mashiur Rahman Swapan, Chattogram Metropolitan Sports Association General Secretary Commander Md. Shahabuddin, Shahabuddin Jahangir, Aminul Islam, and others shared their views. Director of the Department of Physical Education at Chattogram Veterinary University Mujibur Rahman, Deputy Director of the Department of Physical Education and Sports Science at the University of Chittagong Md. Shoaib, student Rahmatul Islam Sohel, national cricketer Imrul Kayes, and national swimmer Nuzhat Jahan also expressed their opinions during the discussion.

The speakers pointed out limitations in sports infrastructure in Chattogram, the lack of a conducive environment for athlete development, and the declining representation of the region at the national level. At the same time, they highlighted the city’s potential and stressed the need for integrated planning and swift implementation.

In his address, keynote speaker Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said initiatives would be taken to identify existing problems in sports development in Chattogram and resolve them step by step. He emphasized that developing international-standard athletes requires modern infrastructure, a quality training system, and ensuring all necessary facilities for players. He also mentioned that several sports-related development plans have already been included in the upcoming election manifesto, underscoring the importance given to sports development. He urged all sports organizations, administrators, and athletes to work together in a coordinated manner.

Moderator Tamim Iqbal said that Chattogram was once one of the leading sports centers in Bangladesh, producing numerous national and international athletes. However, he noted that this continuity has declined over time. To overcome the current situation, he stressed the need for collective efforts involving sports organizers, coaches, athletes, and the administration. Tamim expressed optimism that with proper planning and practical initiatives, Chattogram could once again be established as one of the country’s premier sports hubs. He also emphasized the importance of developing sports infrastructure, organizing regular competitions, and adopting long-term plans to nurture young athletes, while encouraging the younger generation to become more involved in sports.

The discussion concluded with speakers expressing hope that the implementation of clear plans and commitment-driven programs would enable Bangladesh to build a stronger position in international sports. Emphasis was also placed on taking collective initiatives to attract the younger generation towards sports.

Notably, the event was attended by a large number of representatives from various sports organizations in Chattogram, university students, athletes, coaches, and other sports-related.