United News of Bangladesh

The government has approved a Tk 866.55 crore project to modernise laboratories and upgrade infrastructure at Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (Duet), Gazipur, aiming to transform it into an international-standard research and education hub. The project aims to create a technology-based skilled workforce by modernising engineering and technology education and research facilities through the establishment of an international standard research center. The project, titled “Modernisation and Capacity Enhancement of Laboratories and Necessary Infrastructure Development at Duet, Gazipur”, will run from July 2025 to June 2029, with the entire cost to be borne from the government exchequer. The project will be jointly implemented by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and Duet. It includes construction of new academic and laboratory buildings, modernisation of research facilities, development of student accommodation for 1,600 learners, and enhanced campus security and communication systems. According to the project document, there is a need for research-oriented engineering science and technology-based technical education to accelerate economic progress through continuous modernisation of the production system and higher growth-oriented transformation. The project proposed by the Secondary and Higher Education Department has been adopted with the aim of modernising engineering and technology education and research facilities by establishing international standard research centers, modernising university laboratories, constructing academic and laboratory buildings, and creating security and inter-campus communication facilities, it said. It included modernisation of research laboratories for about 3,500 students of the university, construction of an 11,508 square meter academic building and a 33,500 square meter laboratory building, creation of housing facilities for 1,600 new students and creation of security and inter-campus communication facilities. According to the project document, alignment with development plan objectives and targets, a highly skilled workforce equipped with the necessary technical and professional skills is required to achieve economic growth in Bangladesh. For this reason, the 8th Five Year Plan (July 2020-June 2025) has emphasised on improving the quality of higher education as a development strategy for the education sector. The government has already set a goal to create interest in studying science and technology among the younger generation. The project document said the government is committed to promoting research at all levels and conducting research and innovation activities to introduce new technologies is a goal. It is expected that the implementation of the proposed project will create a skilled workforce by establishing international standard research centers, acquiring engineering and technological knowledge, and modernising education and research facilities as a strategy to accelerate the country's economic development. A significant component involves the procurement of 7,269 laboratory equipment items at a cost of Tk. 266.62 crore, which accounts for 30.77% of the total project expenditure. This investment will substantially enhance the quality of scientific research and advanced learning at the university. In terms of infrastructure development, a number of large-scale construction works are included. At the old campus, three existing halls—Dr. Kudrat-e-Khuda Hall, Dr. F. R. Khan Hall, and Shaheed Muktijoddha Hall—will be replaced by a 13-story student dormitory with a basement and a dining facility to accommodate 1,200 students, covering 30,355 square meters at an estimated cost of Tk. 160.32 crore (18.50%). Besides, a 17-story multipurpose research center with two basements will be built on the old campus, covering 25,500 square meters, with an allocation of Tk. 140.22 crore (16.18%). Further expansion works include the construction of a Teachers-Students Complex at the old campus. On the new campus, the existing academic building will be vertically expanded from the 8th to the 12th floor, adding 11,508 square meters at a cost of Tk. 47.98 crore (5.54%). The existing laboratory building will be extended from the 5th to the 12th floor, adding 8,000 square meters, with a budget of Tk. 37.55 crore (4.33%). Other planned works include the vertical expansion of the Bijoy 24 student hall on the new campus, extending it from the 7th to the 10th floor to cover 4,000 square meters, costing Tk. 19.46 crore (2.25%). The Teachers’ and Officers’ Building at the old campus will also be expanded from the 6th to the 10th floor, covering 3,415 square meters, with a budget of Tk. 16.92 crore (1.95%). Besides, the existing ICT Incubator Building on the new campus will be extended up to the 10th floor, including ancillary works, covering 1,000 square meters, with an allocation of Tk. 12.69 crore (1.46%). Planning Commission officials said that it is expected that the project under consideration will play an important role in creating a technology-based skilled manpower by modernising engineering and technology education and research facilities, modernising university laboratories, constructing academic and laboratory buildings, and creating security and inter-campus communication facilities through the establishment of an international standard research center. Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud welcomed the initiative, noting that no land acquisition was required. “This is a good project. DUET graduates are performing exceptionally well abroad—sometimes even better than Buet graduates,” he said, recalling his surprise at meeting a renowned professor in London who was a DUET alumnus.  

Nearly three lakh residents of Beanibazar upazila in Sylhet district are being deprived of proper healthcare as the area’s only public hospital — the 50-bed Beanibazar Upazila Health Complex — faces an acute shortage of doctors, with effectively just one physician available to serve the entire population. According to official sources, the health complex has 27 approved posts for doctors, but only five are currently in position.  These include the upazila health officer, one residential medical officer and three consultants.  However, the consultants are engaged primarily in surgical duties and do not take part in regular medical care, while the health officer is occupied with administrative responsibilities.  As a result, only one doctor is left to handle the overwhelming patient load. This dire situation has persisted for nearly three years, with many doctors joining the facility only to be swiftly transferred elsewhere.  Health adviser’s treatment in Singapore should be viewed from humanitarian perspective: Asif Mahmud Despite repeated media reports, visits and recommendations from higher authorities, no tangible steps have been taken to resolve the crisis. On Monday, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Sylhet, along with the civil surgeon and other officials, visited the hospital and expressed strong dissatisfaction over the collapsing state of healthcare in the upazila. Hospital records reveal long-term absenteeism among several appointed doctors.  The emergency medical officer, who joined in July 2010, has been absent since November 2011 — nearly 14 years — without any disciplinary action. The Residential Medical Officer has been absent since May 2023, while the indoor medical officer since July 2023, and the medical officer since August 2023.  Another doctor has not reported for duty for the past three years. Locals allege that some of these doctors are currently abroad pursuing higher studies, leaving the hospital’s services in disarray. Upazila Health Officer Dr Monirul Haque Khan said several doctors are either absent, transferred, or made officers on special duty (OSD), and the issue has been consistently reported to higher authorities. Sylhet Civil Surgeon Dr Nasir Uddin said that letters have been sent multiple times but, without action from the ministry, little progress can be made.  “We continue to send recommendations to the ministry for necessary steps,” he said. Residents fear that unless immediate measures are taken, the healthcare system in Beanibazar will remain paralysed, depriving thousands of timely medical treatment. During his visit, DC Sarwoer Alam warned that the hospital could no longer be allowed to operate in such a disorganised manner. “All administrative measures will be taken to ensure healthcare services for rural people,” he said. Prof Yunus cautions against leaving healthcare to profit-driven actors

The Election Commission is seriously working to design an effective strategy to curb the abuse of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media, considering the fight against misinformation and disinformation on social media as a major challenge during the upcoming national election slated for February 2026. The current commission, headed by AMM Nasir Uddin, believes the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media could hamper a congenial electoral environment ahead of the 13th parliamentary election in this era of artificial intelligence and digital platforms. Taking the issue seriously, the EC has already incorporated several provisions in the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates in Parliamentary Election Rule 2025 to check the misuse of AI and social media. Besides, the commission has planned to form a central cell or committee to effectively control AI- and social media-related abuses. “We’ll form a committee to effectively control the abuses of AI and social media. But it may be a central cell or an effective committee. We’ve yet to define its name,” EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed told UNB on Wednesday. Alongside the central committee, the Commission may also set up committees at district or upazila level to contain such abuses, if necessary. NBR unveils 10-year strategy to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation In the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates in Parliamentary Election Rule 2025 finalized on September 4, the EC imposed a ban on the misuse of AI and social media, along with restrictions on drones and quadcopters in election campaigns. According to the clause 16 of the code of conduct, a candidate or his election agent or any other persons on his behalf can carry out election campaign on social media, but the name and account ID, e-mail ID and other identifying information of a candidate or his election agent or party related social media must be submitted to the Returning Officer before the commencement of the campaign. In the case of social media campaigns, Artificial Intelligence (AI) cannot be used for malicious purposes in any election-related matter, including campaigning. As per the clause, all types of harmful content, including hate speech, misinformation, disfiguring someone's face and fabricated election-related information, shall not be created and disseminated as well as hate speech, personal attacks, or inflammatory language targeting opponents, women, minorities, or any other group of people shall not be used in the social media. Bangladesh Polls: Lines redrawn, but 22 upazilas still stranded between 2 seats The clause also states that religious or ethnic sentiments must not be exploited for electoral gain; and the authenticity of all election-related content must be verified before publication or sharing on social media. It further states that no political party, candidate, or supporter shall create, publish, circulate or share any false, misleading, biased, hateful, obscene, offensive or defamatory content on social media or any other medium, generally or by editing or by means of Artificial Intelligence (AI), with the intention of misleading voters or of defaming the character or reputation of any candidate or person, regardless of gender. The maximum punishment for violating this code is six months’ imprisonment, or a fine of Tk 150,000 or both. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on several occasions stressed that the misuse of AI and social media poses a major challenge ahead of the next national election. "With the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is possible to circulate content using my exact image and voice. In this election, such abuse of AI has emerged as a major challenge for us. We are trying to address it," he said at a function in Khulna on July 26 last. He said AI can generate a massive volume of misinformation and disinformation in some cases, which disrupt the election campaigns completely. This is a modern threat of the digital era, which is more dangerous than weapons, he added. In his latest remarks on September 28, the CEC reiterated that the Commission has been working seriously to fight the abuse of AI, misinformation and disinformation on social media during the upcoming national election. “We’ve been seriously working on this issue for a long time. InshAllah, we’ll develop a central communication cell. We’re fully aware of the consequences of abuse of social media and AI,” he said. Senior election officers at a conference at Nirbachan Bhaban on September 27 last also raised the issue saying that they must fight the abuse of AI and social media to ensure a congenial atmosphere in the upcoming election.    

Sudden and severe riverbank erosion has taken a devastating turn in Par Bishnupur village of Kalia upazila of Narail district, swallowing several business establishments overnight and leaving local traders and farming families in crisis. According to locals, at least 10 shops in Par Bishnupur Bazar, situated on the banks of the Nabaganga River, collapsed into the river in a single night. Trees along the market’s edge were also swept away. The abrupt destruction has left business owners disoriented, while agriculture-dependent families are facing acute hardship. Dhaka’s battery rickshaw anarchy: Crackdown or compromise? Dilruba, a tea stall owner, shared her distress, “As a woman, I have been running this tea shop for years to support my family. With the shop gone to the river, I no longer have any income. Every day I worry about how to feed my children.” Abdul Quddus, who owned a grocery, tea and cosmetics shop, said, “I have lost everything at once. The shop was my only source of livelihood. Now that everything has been washed away, I am left on the streets with my family. I don’t know where to go or what to do.” Local resident Shariful Sheikh said that riverbank erosion is a recurring problem in the area, but this year’s devastation is unprecedented. “Every year erosion happens here, but I never imagined it would be this severe. The entire market collapsed overnight. Unless a permanent embankment is built, the whole area will disappear into the river,” he said. Anthrax outbreak spreads in Rangpur, sparks concern in northern districts Another grocery shop owner, Nazrul Sheikh, expressed despair, “The shop’s earnings were enough to sustain my family. Now, with it gone, we are left destitute. Unless compensation or rehabilitation is arranged, we have no way to survive.” Tea stall owner Atiar Mina said, “It was a small shop, but it was the lifeline for our family. The river has swallowed it. Now there is no work, and we are spending our days in hunger. If the government does not step in with urgent aid, we will be forced to live on the streets.” Former chairman of Purulia Union Parishad, Abu Bakar Siddique, warned of the broader impact, “If the market collapses like this, the entire economy of the area will crumble. Not only the market, but roads, mosques, schools and many important structures are at risk. If the government does not immediately construct a permanent embankment, Par Bishnupur Bazar will soon vanish from the map.” Feni villagers watch helplessly as erosion swallows homes Responding to the crisis, Abhijit Kumar Saha, Executive Engineer of the Water Development Board, said, “As soon as we heard about the erosion at Par Bishnupur Bazar in Purulia Union, we dispatched representatives from the office. We are monitoring the situation closely. Discussions have already been held with higher authorities, and we will take measures as quickly as possible to prevent further erosion.”  

Unauthorised battery-powered rickshaws have flooded the streets of Dhaka, moving unchecked across flyovers, major roads and narrow lanes. With no effective regulation or monitoring, these vehicles have created a state of disorder on the roads, worsening traffic congestion and increasing accident risks. Although the exact figure is uncertain, the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) estimates that there are more than 60 lakh battery-powered rickshaws across the country, with 10 to 12 lakh of them operating in the capital alone. A survey conducted by Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) revealed that 20 percent of road accidents in its jurisdiction are caused by these vehicles, with women and children being the worst affected. Built without following safety standards, these rickshaws frequently mount pavements and are often involved in collisions due to their uncontrolled speed. Tougher policy soon to regulate battery-run rickshaws in Bangladesh Local residents and commuters are increasingly alarmed. Mehdi Hasan of Malibagh said, “Auto-rickshaws should be banned at any cost. Each auto-rickshaw is practically an accident machine. Visit the orthopaedic hospital and others to see the damage.” Md Rakib echoed the frustration, pointing to the influence of vested groups, “The administration cannot even touch the rickshaw syndicate. They routinely confiscate 10–15 rickshaws but do nothing meaningful. The government must take strict, decisive action.” Private car driver Suman added that the problem has become unbearable for motorists. “The numbers have become so overwhelming that even driving at a normal speed is difficult. These drivers lack any basic knowledge of road safety and drive recklessly, making it hard for private car drivers like us to navigate," he said. From the law enforcement side, Anisur Rahman, a police sergeant, admitted the challenge, “For every 100 battery rickshaws we confiscate, 500 more hit the streets. It’s time to shut down the workshops and stop importing parts altogether.” A visit to different areas of the capital shows how deeply entrenched the industry has become. Hundreds of small and large workshops in Mohammadpur, Bosila, Keraniganj, Beribadh, Old Dhaka, Jatrabari, Mugda, Manda and Mirpur are manufacturing battery-run rickshaws daily. Battery-run rickshaws won’t be allowed on Dhaka's main roads: DNCC Administrator Attempts by past governments to restrict their operation largely failed. Authorities are now trying to ban them from VIP roads, though with little success. Booming Business Battery-run rickshaws, or e-rickshaws, first appeared in Bangladesh in the late 2000s, when local innovators began retrofitting traditional cycle rickshaws with imported Chinese electric motors and lead-acid batteries. Today, the industry is estimated at USD 871 million (2022), comprising 3 to 4 million vehicles that transport over 112 million people every day. According to Professor Mohammed Ehsan of the Mechanical Engineering Department at BUET, profitability is the key driver behind their rapid growth. “Compared to other businesses, the return on investment is huge. Owners earn at least Tk 500 a day by investing Tk 70,000 without ensuring any quality. The government must intervene to regulate quality and control their spread,” he said. Don't ride battery-run rickshaws and buy anything from hawkers on footpaths:DNCC Garage owners are reaping the benefits. Khokon Mia, who runs a garage in Dhaka, explained: “I earn around Tk 200,000 a month from this business but I spend half of it on paying off police, local gangs, and thieves to keep operations running smoothly. This is an open secret. Everyone wants to invest in this business because of the quick profits.” Corporation Initiative Yet to Take Off In June, DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz announced that newly designed battery-run e-rickshaws, developed by BUET, would be introduced on Dhaka’s streets by August. However, the initiative has yet to materialise. According to the plan, the new vehicles will be launched in two zones on a trial basis. They will receive five-year licences with annual fitness checks, while monthly road permit fees will also be collected. Drivers will be trained on road safety and vehicle handling, with a target to train 100,000 drivers. Importantly, these rickshaws will not be allowed on the city’s main roads. Government Move Beyond city-level initiatives, the government has prepared a draft policy to rein in the use of unregistered battery-operated three-wheelers – widely known as electric auto-rickshaws or easy bikes – across the country. Control battery-run rickshaw movement to avoid accidents: National Committee The proposed Electric Three-Wheeler Management Policy 2025, developed by the Road Transport and Highways Division under the Road Transport and Bridges Ministry, sets out strict requirements. All vehicles must be registered with BRTA and drivers will be required to hold valid driving licences. Parts including motors, controllers, gearboxes, axles, wheels, brakes, headlights, shock absorbers, batteries and chargers must carry BSTI approval. Manufacturers and assemblers will also need to be registered with the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA). Besides, only new vehicles and BSTI-approved parts may be imported, while charging stations must comply with guidelines issued by the Power Division in 2021.  

An anthrax outbreak that first appeared in Pirgachha upazila of Rangpur has now spread to two more upazilas, with suspected cases reported in Mithapukur and Kaunia, raising alarm among locals. Health officials said 13 people have so far been diagnosed with anthrax in Pirgachha, where two people died in July and September after developing symptoms of the disease. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) sent a special medical team to Pirgachha last month. On September 13 and 14, they collected samples from 18 suspected patients in Pirgachha Sadar and Parul unions, of which 13 tested positive. “Samples from frozen beef also tested positive for anthrax spores, while one patient was infected after exposure to contaminated goat meat,” an IEDCR source said. The Civil Surgeon’s office in Rangpur confirmed that the two earlier deaths were caused by anthrax. At least 100 others in four unions showed symptoms between July and September and livestock officials previously detected the bacteria in diseased cattle slaughtered in the area. Climate change behind world’s worst dengue death rates in Bangladesh According to Pirgachha Upazila Health Complex, around 60 patients have sought treatment so far, including 30 at the facility’s outpatient department. Upazila Health Officer Dr Muhammad Tanvir Hasnat said, “We are keeping records of all suspected patients. About 90 percent are recovering with treatment. However, the two deaths we confirmed were directly caused by anthrax.” Locals in villages such as Deuti, Purba Parul and Anandee Dhaniram reported that over the past two months anthrax killed more than 150 cattle. The outbreak has also exposed systemic weaknesses in livestock handling and meat sales across Rangpur division. Despite some 1,500 cattle and goats being slaughtered daily in the region’s 1,300 markets, veterinary checks are rarely conducted. No market has a modern slaughterhouse or permanent veterinary presence. Although laws require livestock to be examined before slaughter and butchers to obtain licenses and health clearance, most traders operate without permits, many claiming ignorance of the rules. Chandpur’s century-old municipal clinic closes leaving poor in distress Following the Pirgachha cases, anthrax has spread to neighbouring Sundarganj upazila in Gaibandha district, where 60–65 cattle and goats are slaughtered daily across more than 30 sites. Meat vendor Shukur Ali said checks are carried out only at the municipal market. “In Ramganj, unhealthy cattle are often slaughtered and the meat supplied wholesale to other areas,” he added. Livestock Officer Dr Biplob Kumar Dey said authorities were ensuring inspections at Sundarganj’s main slaughterhouses, but admitted enforcement in rural markets remained difficult. A similar situation exists in Taraganj upazila of Rangpur, where more than 60 traders operate without licences and health checks. Local butcher Hasinur Islam admitted he was unaware of the requirement. “We don’t slaughter sick animals, so we don’t do health tests. Because of limited space, we often slaughter cattle outside,” he said. Health experts warn that anthrax spreads to humans through contact with infected animals or their products—meat, blood, hides and bones—but not from person to person. The disease typically causes skin lesions and ulcers. From Cells to Care: Khulna’s new central jail promises real change Deputy Civil Surgeon of Rangpur Dr. Ruhul Amin confirmed suspected cases in Mithapukur and Kaunia. “We have sent eight more samples to IEDCR. The results are pending,” he said, urging the public to avoid slaughtering sick cattle. “We have adequate stocks of antibiotics at upazila health complexes. Treatment is effective if patients come early. But since the disease originates in livestock, prevention depends on veterinary measures.” Livestock officials said vaccination drives are being intensified. District Livestock Officer Abu Sayeed reported that over 165,000 cattle, goats and sheep have been vaccinated in Pirgachha, Kaunia, Mithapukur and Rangpur Sadar since August 26. “There is no reason for panic. Awareness programmes are being carried out in mosques, temples and marketplaces,” he said. Division Livestock Director Dr Abdur Hai Sarkar admitted manpower shortages were a major challenge. “We encourage traders to obtain licences and conduct health checks. But we don’t have enough veterinarians to cover every market. Volunteers are now being engaged to assist with inspections,” he said. As officials scramble to contain the outbreak, doctors and public health experts warn that continued neglect of veterinary rules could make anthrax a recurring threat in northern Bangladesh.

Works of celebrated Bangladeshi masters, including Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin (1914–1976), Mohammad Kibria (1929–2011), Rashid Chowdhury (1932–1986), Kalidas Karmakar (1946–2019) and Shahid Kabir (b.1949), have been showcased in this year’s Sotheby’s auction of South Asian Modern & Contemporary Art in London, alongside renowned artists from India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Under the segment titled 'Five Bangladeshi Jewels' on Sotheby’s website, the estimated price ranges for these works are: Zainul Abedin’s Untitled (£15,000–20,000), Rashid Chowdhury’s Untitled (£10,000–15,000), Mohammad Kibria’s Untitled (£12,000–18,000), Shahid Kabir’s Mosque, Lalan and Temple; Lalan on White Horse; Jatra Stage of Time (£7,500–9,500), and Kalidas Karmakar’s ‘Holy War’ (£1,500–2,500). The combined lower estimate for the Bangladeshi works stood at £46,000; however, they eventually ended up being collectively sold for £181,610. The auction, presented by Sotheby’s Indian and South Asian Art department, began on Tuesday at 2 pm local time. Among its highlights was ‘Holy War’, a rare 1978–79 work by the late Bangladeshi maverick Kalidas Karmakar (1946–2019), widely regarded as a pioneer of experimental printmaking and contemporary visual language in Bangladesh. The mixed-media composition, measuring 60.2 x 50.9 cm, is executed in pen, ink, gouache and collage on paper. Inscribed “Pen and Ink Drawing, Gouache, collage, Kali ‘78–79” along the lower edge, the piece was originally acquired in Dhaka around 1979–80, later entering a private collection in Spain. According to Sotheby’s catalogue, Karmakar’s ‘Holy War’ series reflects on the violence and futility of conflict through fragmented grids, layered collages, and pen-drawn symbols. A relentless experimentalist, he introduced unconventional materials such as sand, fabric and metal into his collages and installations, drawing inspiration from surrealism, abstraction and tantric philosophy in search of universal meaning. “Like a river, ever flowing and unbound, Kalidas Karmakar has been a wandering soul, his nomadic and restless mind taking him places untraveled and subjects unexplored. Although a globetrotter, he always anchors himself in his native Bangladesh, finding inspiration from its alluvial soil and heroic past,” wrote art critic H. Ferdous in Kalidas Karmakar: Alluvial Soul Soil Symbol, Artcon (2016), quoted in the Sotheby’s catalogue. Born in Faridpur in 1946, Karmakar studied at the Institute of Fine Arts, Dhaka, and the Government College of Art & Craft, Kolkata, later pursuing advanced training in Poland, Japan and France. From his first major solo exhibition in Dhaka in 1976, he went on to stage more than 90 solo shows worldwide. His contributions to Bangladeshi art earned him numerous accolades, including the Ekushey Padak, the nation’s second-highest civilian award. Only three works from the ‘Holy War’ series have surfaced to date, incorporating burnt paper along with other experimental mediums. Speaking on the significance of the series, ARK Reepon, founder of Artcon, said: “Kalidas Karmakar’s ‘Holy War’ works are rooted in the Liberation War of 1971, created from his personal experiences during that turbulent period. One of these belongs to Artcon’s collection. Of the three known works in the series, two are reproduced in the artist’s monograph KALIDAS: Alluvial Soul . Soil . Symbol (Artcon, 2025)." "The Sotheby’s auction piece, believed to be the first in the series, has resurfaced after decades, finding its place on the global stage. Seeing Bangladeshi artworks sold internationally not only raises their value but also brings to light unseen works of our master artists, giving them well-deserved global recognition,” ARK Reepon told UNB. Regarding the matter, Gallery Cosmos Artistic Director Sourav Chowdhury spoke to UNB, stating: “In 2015, Gallery Cosmos exhibited another work from the ‘Holy War’ series in our ‘Braveheart’ exhibition. Kalidas was deeply associated with our gallery from the beginning, and seeing the series now gain international recognition at Sotheby’s auction is a proud moment for us.” Speaking recently to Prothom Alo on Bangladesh’s position in the South Asian art landscape, Manjari Sihare Sutin, Co-Worldwide Head of Sotheby’s Indian and South Asian Art Department, said: “Bangladeshi artists have created both figurative and abstract visual languages that honour the country’s history and vibrant culture. Zainul Abedin’s truthful depictions of ordinary lives earned him the title of Shilpacharya, while the abstract paintings of Mohammad Kibria and Aminul Islam captured the luminous colours of Bangladesh’s natural landscapes.” In recent years, Bangladeshi artworks have garnered increasing international attention. In September 2024, Zainul Abedin’s 1970 geometric drawing on paper, initially valued at £10,000–15,000, fetched a record £516,000 (Tk 8.25 crore) at Sotheby’s—marking the highest auction price ever for his work. Founded in 1744, Sotheby’s has been holding dedicated auctions of South Asian Modern & Contemporary Art since 1995. Its March 2025 New York sale of South Asian works generated $16.8 million—over three times the lower pre-sale estimate—with a sell-through rate of 95.5 percent and 84 percent of lots surpassing their high estimates. Kalidas Karmakar’s ‘Holy War’ now joins this dynamic legacy, reaffirming the global resonance of Bangladeshi modern and contemporary art.    

Gold has become an unprecedentedly valuable asset in Bangladesh as its price is skyrocketing by a staggering 40 per cent over the first nine months of the year, affecting everything from the country’s investment portfolios to the local jewellery market. Mostly used as jewelry, the high price has dipped the demand for the precious metal. Gold jewelers now spend most of their time in the day doing nothing. Their sales have halved compared with last year.  At the end of last year, the price of 22-carat gold was Tk 138,288 per bhori. Nine months later, the cost rose to Tk 195,384, setting a new historic record for the price. The previous record was made on September 23, when the price of 22-carat gold reached Tk 194,859. The latest gold price hike of Tk 2,415 per bhori became effective on Tuesday. The gold price increased by TK 21,000 per bhori in September alone. The Bangladesh Jewelers’ Association (BAJUS) regulates gold prices in the country. Gold starts selling at record high after fresh BAJUS hike "Gold prices have been rising uncontrollably for decades. In 2000, the price of one bhori of gold was below Tk 10,000," said Gobinda Halder, a gold trader in Tantibazar. “Relentless price hikes halved customers,” said Gobinda. Buyers now mostly come to jewelers to sell gold or take a loan against the precious metal. The BAJUS describes the event of gold price change as a price adjustment, which actually saw the price rise 41 times until September this year. The gold price, on the other hand, dropped 17 times, with the latest fall in the price coming on September 27. Last year, the gold price was adjusted 62 times, including 35 hikes.  Historical data from BAJUS shows that in 2000, the price of 22-carat gold per bhori was Tk 6,900. By 2010, it had risen to Tk 42,165, and by 2020, it reached Tk 59,195. The gold price increased 229 per cent over the last five years. In the past decade, the price has risen by 361 percent. The gold price has gone up by a whopping 2719 per cent over the last 25 years. “Gold price increases depending on the bullion market,” said Masudur Rahman, chairman of BAJUS’s Price Fixing and Monitoring Standing Committee. The Russia-Ukraine war, dollar depreciation and increased reserves in China’s central bank have influenced the price hike, he said. Gold price hits new record at Tk 191,196 per bhori According to the World Gold Council, the spot price of gold currently stands at $3,742 per ounce, which is 2.43 bhori. The current per bhori price of gold in the international market is $1,540 or Tk 187,880. The price is aligned with the domestic price, given associated costs. In January 2025, the price of gold was $2,796 per ounce, which has increased by nearly $1,000 in nine months. The council forecasts that prices could exceed $4,000 per ounce this year. “Gold sales have already dropped 55 percent in nine months and are likely to decline further if prices continue rising,” said Masud. Gold sales also dropped in India by 40 percent and nearly 20 per cent in Dubai, he said. Gifts of gold ornaments are indispensable on many social occasions, mainly at weddings. There were days when close relatives welcomed new members of their families with a gift of a gold ornament, regardless of the newborn's gender identity. The failure to provide a gold ornament became the reason for disputes in many weddings. Sometimes, weddings were called off. Swinging gold price: BAJUS hikes rates just days after a cut But the situation changed, particularly at a time when inflation is eating away at savings. A simple ring or earring now costs Tk 100,000, about a third of the average annual income per capita. “I wedded my daughter with her mother’s jewelry,” said Anwar Hossain, a private-sector employee. An average middle-class wedding has a budget of Tk 500,000. "The gold market fluctuates like the stock market," said Adiba Afroz, who had gone to the Bashundhara Shopping Mall to buy gold. The leaders of BAJUS defended the price volatility, saying that they follow the international market. Despite rising prices, the World Gold Council said, global gold reserves remain unchanged, indicating the overall value of the metal as an investment. Globally, the council said in 2024, 40 per cent of the gold reserves are considered investment, 33 percent of the gold stock was used as jewelry, while central banks stocked 20 per cent of the gold. About 7 percent of the global gold reserve is used in chip manufacturing. Global annual gold demand rose to 4,974 tonnes in 2024, valued at $600 billion. Bangladesh lacks official data on gold demand, reserves, or its per capita use. About 4.4 million people in Bangladesh are directly or indirectly involved in the gold trade.    

Nearly four years have passed since train services were suspended on the 34-kilometre Chhatak-Sylhet railway line and hopes of a quick return to normalcy remain dim. Locals, commuters and traders say their frustration is mounting as renovation work drags on at what they call a ‘snail’s pace’. The railway line, which was first closed during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, suffered catastrophic damage in the devastating floods of 2022. Floodwaters washed away large sections of track and damaged sleepers, halting all traffic along one of Sylhet division’s most vital transport routes. Stations along the line were abandoned, and businesses in industrial hubs like Chhatak bore the brunt. Transforming Connectivity: Khulna-Dhaka train service via Padma Bridge takes off “Chhatak relied heavily on this railway for transporting construction materials like sand, stone, and cement. The suspension has disrupted trade and commerce badly. We were pleased when renovation work finally began, but now we’re worried about the slow pace. At this rate, it may take years,” said Rabiul Islam, a local businessman. After years of uncertainty, restoration finally resumed in February this year under a Tk 230-crore project. The initiative not only aims to repair the damaged tracks but also modernise stations and upgrade passenger facilities. The Dhaka-based contracting firm, Mir Akhtar Hossain Limited, has been tasked with completing the project by mid-2026. Officials insist progress is ‘satisfactory’ despite minor disruptions from seasonal rainfall. “Rain has slightly delayed construction, though the pace is satisfactory,” said one company official. Bangladesh Railway authorities echo that confidence. “The contractor has been ordered to complete the work within the scheduled period. Progress is satisfactory and trains will soon resume on this route,” said Ahsan Habib, executive engineer of Bangladesh Railway (Chhatak Bazar-Sunamganj). Still, frustration simmers on the ground. Locals argue that the work appears sluggish and fear deadlines will be missed. Traders, in particular, say prolonged suspension of train services has eroded livelihoods. Much awaited train service to begin on Benapole-Dhaka route via Padma Bridge Tuesday “Chhatak’s businesses suffered heavily after the floods damaged the railway. The line is vital for us. We just hope the work ends in due time and services resume,” said local resident Akhtar Hossain. District authorities, meanwhile, are trying to reassure the public. Sunamganj Deputy Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Ilias Mia stressed the importance of both speed and quality. “We want the work completed on time without compromising quality, as railway repairs are not frequently undertaken. We will closely monitor the project,” he said. Next year will prove crucial. If the project keeps to its schedule, trains could return to the tracks by mid-2026, according to locals.

People along the banks of the Choto Feni River in three upazilas are living in constant fear as severe erosion devours land and swallows key regulators at Muchapur and Kazirhat. The erosion has struck Companiganj, Daganbhuiyan and Sonagazi upazilas, claiming crop fields, fruit orchards, roads and hundreds of homesteads. Locals estimate that some 41,000 hectares of farmland have already disappeared, while a further 30,000 hectares remain under threat. Homes, markets, religious institutions and major roads are also teetering on the brink. On September 15, more than a hundred residents from Badarpur village in Chormojlishpur union, Sonagazi, formed a human chain in front of the Feni Water Development Board office. They demanded urgent measures to save their homes, mosques and surrounding land from further erosion. Villagers said that although a contractor has been stationed in the area for over a month under a large-scale project, no meaningful protection work has begun — not even the placement of geo bags. They claim the contractor has blamed the Board and stalled progress with repeated excuses. Dug-up road turns into knee-deep canal; Kaliganj villagers have to use rafts Meanwhile, several roads have collapsed, cracks have appeared in houses and the situation is deteriorating fast. Residents warn that unless prompt action is taken, entire villages could soon disappear. Among the worst-hit locations in Sonagazi Upazila are North Char Darbesh, North West Char Darbesh, Char Sahavikhari, Char Injiman, Taltoli, Tellargat, Fakirapul and Italy Market in Char Darbesh Union. Badarpur and Miajir’s Ghat in Char Majlishpur Union have also been badly affected. In Bogdana Union, erosion has damaged Jelepara, Kuthirhat, Katakhila, Kalimandir, Aurarkhil, Adarshgram, Kazirhat Sluice Gate, Alampur, Dhanipara and Saheber Ghat. In Daganbhuiyan Upazila, Bhashashahid Salam Nagar village has been hit, while in Noakhali’s Companiganj Upazila, Muchapur village, Macchaghona, East Char Hazari and East Char Parbati in Char Parbati Union have suffered significant loss. Hundreds of cement and semi-cement houses have already been washed away. Villagers report that sections of their homes, trees and gardens have vanished overnight. Many are dismantling what remains and moving to temporary shelters. Some have tried to shore up the banks with bamboo and trees, but these makeshift barriers are proving futile. Dangerous Crossing: Kurigram villagers plead for permanent bridge The threat is particularly severe in north-west Char Darbesh, Kazirhat, Aurarkhil, Daspara, Katakhila and Kuthirhat, where the river is advancing relentlessly day and night. Monowara, a resident of Badarpur village in Majlishpur union, spoke of her grief, “The river has taken away our home.” Md Sentu Mia, also from Badarpur, said displaced families are staying with relatives. “They are going through immense hardship,” he explained. He added that although villagers have made attempts to stem the erosion, the contractor delayed starting work by two months. “Hundreds of people have become homeless in just two months due to heavy monsoon rains and high tides. Their homes are disappearing before our very eyes. We are helpless, and no one seems to be paying attention,” he said. Kamal Uddin from Char Gopalgaon described how the Chhoto Feni River runs along the western side of his village. Since recent floods, he said, the current has grown unusually strong, cutting into the banks for two to three kilometres. “Ten years ago, my house was swept away. Now I live on someone else’s land. Half of this village has already gone. Many more homes will disappear within weeks if urgent action is not taken,” he said. Meghnath Chandra Das, also from the area, said locals are trying to protect their homes with sandbags, bamboo and trees, “but it is not holding up at all.” Md Akter Hossain Majumder, executive engineer of the Bangladesh Water Development Board’s Feni office, confirmed that the Chhoto Feni, Feni and Kalidas Pahalia rivers are causing erosion across the three upazilas. He said 13 kilometres of riverbank are currently at risk. Billion-dollar Teesta mega project: A recipe for catastrophe He pointed to a major initiative, the ‘Be Strong’ project, recently approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). Funded by the World Bank, the Tk171-crore scheme aims to reinforce vulnerable banks along the three rivers and is due to begin soon. Majumder added that in the 2024–25 financial year, repair work worth Tk17.75 crore has been completed at 116 locations. The Muchapur regulator, destroyed in last year’s flood, will also be rebuilt under a government initiative. Villagers remain hopeful that these measures, if implemented without delay, will spare them further loss and restore a measure of security.