The BSCIC industrial estate was established in 1962 on 24.89 acres of land in Gotatikor area of Dakkhin Surma upazila. Many entrepreneurs set up industrial units in the estate in the 80s and those were running successfully.

Later, the entrepreneurs started losing interest in investing in the industrial area due to alleged corruption and irregularities by the BSCIC authorities. Consequently, the units were closed one after another.

Of the total 137 plots in the estate, allotments were given for 134 plots, including 71 for industrial units. Of these, only 46 industrial units are now in operation.

BISCIC sources said many units were closed down as those failed to earn any profit.

Local sources said many dwelling houses have been built on the plots in the industrial estate. Gambling and other anti-social activities now become a regular feature in the estate, they alleged.