In a groundbreaking move, Chittagong University (CU) is set to launch the country’s first-ever “Satellite Ocean Observation and Data Innovation Center”, aimed at reducing Bangladesh’s reliance on foreign agencies for critical data related to cyclones, tidal surges, and coastal disasters.
Once fully operational, the centre will provide vital oceanographic and meteorological information, including disaster forecasts, within just 15 to 20 minutes.
Experimental activities at the ‘Ocean Observation and Data Innovation Centre’ are scheduled to commence on 9 June. The infrastructure for this state-of-the-art facility, located adjacent to the Faculty of Marine Sciences and Fisheries, has already been completed.
The project, which began on March 26, 2025, is not a direct financial aid initiative. Instead, the Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO), under China’s Ministry of Natural Resources, is supplying all necessary equipment and technical support. The SIO’s contribution, valued at approximately Tk50 crore, includes satellite antennas, archive centres, computers, monitors, and various research tools.
In return, Chittagong University is providing local support worth around Tk20 crore, which includes land allocation, infrastructure development, security measures, power supply, operational costs, and the involvement of expert faculty members.
Speaking to TIMES of Bangladesh, project coordinator and Professor of the Department of Oceanography at CU, Mohammad Moslem Uddin, explained that the centre will act as a downlink station to directly receive data from various satellites.
“The centre aims to connect with a total of 11 satellites, with partial connections already established with seven. Currently, we are receiving data from Chinese satellites, as well as those from Japan and NASA,” Professor Moslem Uddin stated.
He added that direct satellite data from China’s HY-1 series and FY-4B would allow disaster warnings to be issued 48 to 72 hours in advance, significantly improving safety for coastal populations and assets.
With a storage capacity of 420 terabytes, the centre will also facilitate research into climate change, river erosion, coastal flooding, and deforestation. It is expected to play a crucial role in developing the country’s Blue Economy.
By analysing sea surface temperature, salinity, currents, and chlorophyll density, researchers will be able to identify potential fishing zones in the Bay of Bengal, improving fisheries management.
Professor Moslem Uddin emphasised that the centre’s primary focus is research and education, rather than commercial gain. “The data will remain an intellectual asset of the university. Researchers and students can access this data for their studies on oceanography and the environment by submitting research proposals and paying a nominal subscription fee,” he stated.
On the management of the centre, Professor Uddin noted that as a university initiative, operations would be overseen by Syndicate decisions and University Grants Commission (UGC) budgeting.
CU Vice-Chancellor Mohammad Al-Forkan told TIMES that such a large-scale project requires extensive planning. “We will be able to provide research allocations and make permanent appointments through UGC approval. Currently, two to three individuals are engaged on a daily-wage basis,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also revealed that a committee has been formed to oversee the inaugural ceremony, which is expected to be attended by the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh, a five-member Chinese delegation, and the Education Minister.
He further noted that several private organisations have already expressed interest in accessing the centre’s data.
