United News of Bangladesh

The scenic and serene Lal Komol and Neel Komol lakes, long celebrated as the jewels of Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU), are now teetering on the brink of environmental collapse, casting a shadow over the university’s future and threatening the delicate balance of the campus ecosystem. Once known for their crystal-clear waters, verdant surroundings and picturesque charm, these two iconic lakes have become increasingly vulnerable to the ravages of nature. Erosion along their banks has created perilous conditions that are not only endangering the beauty of the lakes but also jeopardising the safety of students and visitors alike. In a region already prone to natural disasters, these environmental threats are raising alarms about the potential for devastating accidents and loss of life. Faculty members from the university’s Faculty of Environmental Science and Disaster Management have been closely monitoring the situation and voiced grave concerns over the heavy rainfall and seasonal storms that have battered the lakes in recent times. The damage is evident: the century-old coconut trees that once lined the shores of Lal Komol Lake now stand precariously with exposed roots, their stability in serious doubt. The sturdy mahogany trees that have stood for over a decade are also at risk of collapse, casting a sombre reminder of the fragility of nature. Despite the severe financial constraints that have plagued PSTU, the university administration has made it clear that environmental protection remains a top priority. PSTU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Kazi Rafiqul Islam expressed his unwavering commitment to preserving the lakes, recognising their invaluable contribution to the ecological fabric of the campus.  "Although the university is currently facing financial hardships, we are putting every effort into safeguarding the environment," he asserted. Restoration of Gulshan-Banani Lake could generate Tk 300,000 crore in 20 years: Study "The Lal Komol and Neel Komol lakes are not just scenic landmarks; they are vital to the biodiversity of the campus and play a crucial role in regulating the local climate. We have already initiated a project to permanently protect these lakes by constructing protective pilings around them," the VC said. In an effort to secure the necessary funds for the preservation project, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that a special budget request has been submitted to the University Grants Commission (UGC). “We are hopeful that the UGC will consider our proposal and allocate the required funds within this year’s budget. We are also reaching out to the media and all concerned stakeholders for support in making this initiative a reality," he said. The lake’s delicate beauty is not only appreciated by students but also serves as a sanctuary for local wildlife and migratory birds. Assistant Professor and Deputy Director of the University’s Development Project, Engineer Muhaiminul Alam Faiyaz, alongside his colleagues from the Faculty of Agriculture, emphasised that the lakes are a source of tranquillity and inspiration for students. "They are an integral part of our campus, providing both a place of relaxation and a vital habitat for numerous species. If we do not act soon, the loss will be immeasurable, not just for our university, but for the entire region,” said Faiyaz. Students, who once found solace in the lakeside’s calm embrace, now express anxiety over the deteriorating conditions. Mir Md. Nurunnabi, Afia Tahmin Jahin, and Md. Fardin Hasan, all frequent visitors to the lakes, have shared their growing concerns.  "We used to spend hours by the lake, resting on the wooden bridge or sitting on the benches," she said, adding, "But now, with the banks eroded and the trees tilting dangerously, we can’t help but feel a sense of dread. It’s no longer just a place of beauty; it’s a potential hazard," Hasan said.  Siddhirganj Lake Project, supposed to be completed in 2021, still incomplete

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) is on an earnest drive to expand the tax net in the coming days, aiming to improve the tax-GDP ratio, a key figure as it relates to a variety of forthcoming economic matters for the country. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has asked to increase the tax-GDP ratio to 7.9 percent by next June - which currently languishes at 7.4 percent. Raising the ratio is related with unlocking the 3rd and 4th tranches of the $4.7 billion loan program Bangladesh entered into with the IMF in 1991. According to the NBR, some 1.15 crore individuals have taken electronic Taxpayers Identification Number (ETIN), but only 45 lakh have submitted their income tax return, and one third claimed to have zero return. “We have scope to expand the tax net,” NBR chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan told a recent pre-budget meeting. Meanwhile, the NBR through its countrywide field level offices has launched a new Spot Assessment programme to increase the tax net. Spot Assessment is an effective step to provide direct services to all taxpayers who have taxable income and are obliged to file returns. This program is encouraging new taxpayers to pay income tax spontaneously. NBR mulls amending VAT law to make officers account for lapses Various tax zones of the country have already started this program, which is playing an important role in increasing tax awareness and building a tax paying culture among businessmen, professionals and the general public. Currently, tax zones have actively started conducting Spot Assessment at district and upazila level of the country. “We are getting reports regularly regarding the new taxpayers' inclusion and the revenue collection from them,” the NBR chairman said. The NBR urged all business organisations, chambers of commerce, business leaders, local administrations, eminent persons and taxpayers of the country to provide their unwavering support and cooperation to make the ongoing Spot Assessment activity successful. “We need support from the business leaders to know who would be the capable new taxpayers, they would encourage the other eligible business people to pay taxes and inform them of the advantages and disadvantages of paying and not paying taxes,” he said. NBR officials may ‘lose grip’ as govt plans new revenue division The NBR hoped that spontaneous participation of taxpayers will make this activity successful and continue to invest in ongoing development projects and will directly contribute to the necessary funding to ensure the country's infrastructure development, education, health and other civic amenities. The NBR believes that through the Spot Assessment activity, the tax payment tendency among taxpayers will increase and the tax system will be further strengthened. A senior official of the NBR said that there is no tax day for the new taxpayers, they can enlist themselves and submit their income tac return at any time. “There is no time bar for them, we want to encourage the new taxpayers to include them in the tax net,” he said. Meanwhile, in a meeting held on April 7, the IMF asked the NBR to collect some Tk 2 lakh crore in the next months to meet the conditions for the last two tranches  of the $4.7 billion loan. The IMF has suspended the disbursement of the third and fourth tranches of its $4.7 billion loan package to Bangladesh, citing non-compliance with key reform conditions. The decision follows a review of the country’s macroeconomic indicators and structural performance benchmarks under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) and Extended Fund Facility (EFF) arrangements.    

A sense of dread grips the banks of the Naodoba area in Jajira, Shariatpur, as the impending monsoon threatens to undo a decade’s worth of protective efforts around Bangladesh’s most iconic infrastructure project. Fresh erosion has struck the Padma Bridge project site with alarming force, leaving the vital protective embankment at Naodoba in Jajira teetering dangerously on the brink. Officials and residents alike warn that unless urgent measures are taken before the monsoon arrives, the consequences could be catastrophic – not only for the embankment, but for entire communities living in its shadow. “The situation is critical,” admitted Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) Executive Engineer (Shariatpur WD Board) Tareq Hasan.“Nearly one kilometre of the riverbed has deepened significantly, destabilising the embankment. If we cannot reinforce it in time, Service Area-2, the army camp, Padma Bridge South Police Station, a primary school, Mongol Majhi and Sattar Madbor markets, roads and hundreds of families could all be at risk.” Constructed nearly a decade ago by the Bridges Division at a staggering cost of Tk 110 crore, the nearly two-kilometre-long embankment was meant to safeguard the Padma Bridge project site, he mentioned.  ACC to reinvestigate Padma Bridge corruption case against Sheikh Hasina Yet now, the ever-shifting Padma River has once again risen to challenge that. A visit to the area revealed that at least five to six different points along the embankment have seen sandy soil crumble and collapse into the Padma’s restless waters, with rows of geo-bags intended to protect the embankment lying dislodged and scattered, washed away by the mighty current. A joint survey by the BWDB and Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) paints a grim picture.  In nearly one kilometre of the area, the river has deepened dangerously close to the embankment, causing soil erosion from the riverbed. In the remaining stretch of one kilometre, the Padma has crept perilously close to the embankment, with erosion continuing unabated. As a result, the entire structure now stands vulnerable. The Padma creeps ever closer, with fears mounting that large sections of the embankment could be lost when water levels rise with the monsoon. Shubho Tara (45), a resident of Achimuddin Madbor’s Kandi, stands on what remains of her family’s land, staring into the swirling waters that have already swallowed generations of memories. “The Padma has taken everything – our homes, our lands, our dreams,” she said, her voice trembling. “We rebuilt, again and again, but every year it comes back stronger. Now, cracks are appearing near the embankment.” The warning signs had been there. Last November, nearly 100 metres of the embankment vanished into the river at Naodoba Zero Point, according to the BWDB and BBA survey. Although BWDB was alerted, repairs were delayed for months.  Emergency restoration finally began just days ago, on 25 April, using sand-filled geo-bags and concrete blocks at a cost of Tk 2.87 crore. Much awaited train service to begin on Benapole-Dhaka route via Padma Bridge Tuesday When asked about why immediate action was not taken at the time, local BWDB officials provided no clear explanation. Now, as the clock ticks down to the rainy season, a frantic push is underway. A Development Project Proposal (DPP) has been hurriedly sent to the concerned ministry, seeking approval to undertake large-scale reinforcements, according to Tareq Hasan. However, even if greenlighted today, officials admit it would be impossible to fully complete the work before the monsoon peaks. BWDB officials such as Sub-Assistant Engineer Suman Kumar Banik remain hopeful but cautious. “We have submitted the project proposal and are awaiting approval. If it comes soon, we will start emergency work immediately,” he said, adding that full protection will not be possible this monsoon. “It will take until the next rainy season to complete,” he mentioned. Beyond technical reports and frantic paperwork, it is the riverside residents who bear the daily brunt of the erosion’s fury. Hundreds of homes now perch precariously close to the river’s edge, their foundations trembling. “Every night when the wind howls, we cannot sleep. We just pray that by morning, our home is still here,” added Shubho Tara. As the sun dips behind the Padma, its restless waters lap hungrily at the banks. And now, with the first rains beginning to fall, hundreds like Tara, living in fear, stand still – holding their breath against the river’s relentless, consuming pull. With additional inputs from Julfekar Dehan  

Noting an increasing interest among the Finnish private sector towards Bangladesh, Finland’s Under-Secretary of State (International Trade) Jarno Syrjälä has said there is enormous potential to enhance the collaboration between the companies in the field of green transition. "To name a few, energy, water, and the circular economy are areas where the benefits for both parties seem obvious," he told UNB in an exclusive interview highlighting their focus on sustainability and digitalisation. These are also areas where Finnish businesses can bring state-of-the-art solutions, Syrjälä said, adding that some Finnish companies are among the global leaders in energy and waste-to-energy solutions. "Our companies can also provide efficient technologies in wastewater treatment and water body cleaning," he said. Syrjälä said Finnish companies can provide top-class expertise in smart and sustainable solutions, be it in the fields of energy, ICT, infrastructure, or circular economy and the textile industry. "While the economic collaboration is still on a modest level, the recent business delegation visit proves that there is increasing interest among the Finnish private sector towards Bangladesh," he said. The programme of the delegation was strongly tuned on B2B-contacts and building new partnerships. "Challenges are often around finding the right contacts and information, but I think a lot of these were tackled during our trip to Bangladesh," said the Under-Secretary of State on International Affairs. Asked about steps being taken to enhance economic cooperation and trade between Finland and Bangladesh, the Under-Secretary of State said the recent visit of a Finnish business delegation to Bangladesh including the companies Coolbrook, Elematic, Konecranes, Mirasys, Routa Digital, Wirepas and Wärtsilä was clearly such a concrete step. "I hope the visit facilitated meaningful connections between Bangladeshi and Finnish companies, and that even more Finnish companies will get interested in the Bangladesh market as a result," he said. In digitalisation, the Under-Secretary of State said they recognise Bangladesh’s impressive progress in the last years. Bangladesh, Japan forge stronger SME collaboration at ICOSA roundtable in Tokyo "Smart digital solutions, ICT, AI and cybersecurity are areas where our countries could potentially deepen mutually beneficial cooperation" he said, adding that Finland has globally recognised expertise in ICT, digital governance, and cybersecurity. Digitalisation, ethics and digital security must all go hand in hand. The Under-Secretary of State said Finland has a national cybersecurity center and a whole-of-society approach to cyber resilience, which might also be interesting for Bangladesh. He said they had seven innovative Finnish companies as part of their business delegation-- all of them are already exploring investment opportunities in the Bangladeshi market. "Their focus areas include energy, precast construction solutions, logistics, smart metering, intelligent traffic management, low-emission technologies for heavy industries such as cement, chemicals and steel, as well as digital transformation of businesses," he said. The democratic reform process of Bangladesh bears relevance also with respect to the LDC-graduation, as transition from the EU’s EBA-system to the GSP+ arrangement entails consistent work in the fields of sustainability and human rights, including labour legislation, said the Under-Secretary of State. "With this in mind, we have already seen positive steps by the interim government, and encourage Bangladesh to maintain a strong focus on fulfilling the obligations of international conventions, in line with GSP requirements," he said. Responding to a question, Syrjälä said Finland can offer high-quality solutions in digitalisation and sustainability, for example in renewable energy solutions. "Another example is the textile sector that likely continues to play an important role in Bangladesh’s economy. Because of the huge impact of the textile industry, sustainability is important, and our companies can provide efficient technologies in wastewater treatment, circular textile, and in water body cleaning," he said.

The management of Hajj is set to enter a new era with the introduction of a mobile app, prepaid card services and enhanced roaming facilities aimed at making the pilgrimage experience smoother and more convenient for Bangladeshi pilgrims this year. The government will launch the new mobile application, 'Labbayk', alongside a Hajj prepaid card and special mobile roaming packages for pilgrims. Govt to introduce hajj management centres, app to ensure seamless services for pilgrims These services will be officially inaugurated by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus at his Jamuna residence tomorrow (Monday, 28 April), according to sources from the Ministry of Religious Affairs. This year, 87,100 pilgrims from Bangladesh are expected to perform Hajj, which, subject to the sighting of the moon, will take place on 5 June. Hajj flights are scheduled to begin on April 29. 'Labbayk' Mobile Application The 'Labbayk' app will be available for download from the Google Play Store via the following link:https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ooroh.labbayk.  After verifying their mobile number through a One-Time Password (OTP), users must set a 4-digit PIN. Registration requires the pilgrim’s mobile number, Pilgrim ID (PID), and date of birth. Pilgrims can also invite up to three family members to join the app, enabling them to access essential information about the pilgrim’s journey. Contracts with Hajj service providers must be ended by Feb 14: Adviser Khalid Family members can register using their mobile numbers once they receive an invitation. Guests (open to all) can also register separately. App’s Key Features Emergency Support: Pilgrims can press the SOS (Save Our Souls) button in emergencies, triggering a support team response. Prayer Times and Weather Updates: The app will display prayer schedules and weather forecasts. Flight Information: Details such as flight code, boarding time, departure and arrival times, and baggage allowance will be available. Location Tracking: Pilgrims can track their own and their group members’ locations on Google Maps. Accommodation Information: Hotel details, including names, addresses, distances, photos, videos, and check-in/check-out dates, will be accessible. Family Tracking: Family members can track pilgrims' locations. Tent Locations in Mina and Arafat: Location tracking will be available for tents. Prepaid Card Balance: Pilgrims can view their prepaid card balance. Health Services: Digital health profiles and 24/7 virtual health support will be provided, along with information about Bangladesh Medical Centres and Saudi hospitals. Group Communication: Pilgrims can communicate with their guides via the app. Religious Resources: The app offers a Quran and Hadith library, Qibla direction, digital Tasbih, and Hajj and Umrah guides. Sacrificial Coupon Centres and Historical Sites: Information on sacrificial coupon centres and historical places in Makkah and Madinah. Hajj Agency Information: Details including agency name, licence number, package details, and the ability to leave ratings and reviews. Hajj flights to start from April 29 Hajj Prepaid Card According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, pilgrims will no longer need to open separate accounts for prepaid cards, which are valid for five years and act as a cash substitute. Key Benefits Immediate card issuance and delivery without any charges or fees.A reduced transaction processing fee of 1%, down from 3%.Usable post-Hajj, allowing Bangladeshi Taka to be loaded and accessed as US Dollars or Saudi Riyals. Each pilgrim can load up to US$1,200, approximately Tk 1.5 lakh, onto the card. The card, featuring the Mastercard logo, can be used to withdraw Saudi Riyals at ATM booths and for POS (Point of Sale) payments. Balance reloads and refunds of unused funds are also supported. Issuance and Endorsement Procedure Pilgrims can collect their cards from any Islami Bank branch by presenting: Original passport or a photocopy,National ID card,Two passport-sized photos,Hajj visa copy,Active mobile number.For assistance, pilgrims can contact the domestic call centres at 16259 or 02-8331090, or the overseas WhatsApp numbers +8801844242646 and +8801813197915, and the international call centre at +880961016259. Roaming Facilities Special mobile roaming packages have been launched for Hajj 2025 by Grameenphone, Banglalink, and Robi. Pilgrims will be able to use their existing Bangladeshi SIM cards in Saudi Arabia without the need to purchase local SIMs. Officials from the Hajj Wing said the new roaming packages are more cost-effective than standard Saudi mobile operator rates. Pilgrims can purchase and activate packages ranging from 1 to 60 days through traditional payment gateways or mobile operator apps. Grameenphone offers six packages, Robi three and Banglalink five. Grameenphone’s packages activate immediately upon purchase, while Banglalink’s packages activate automatically upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. It should be noted that Banglalink postpaid users will not have roaming voice call privileges. Saudi Arabia bans children from accompanying Hajj pilgrims The ministry cautioned that if the exact recharge amount required for a package is not met, the package will not activate. For more details, pilgrims are advised to contact their respective mobile operators’ call centres or customer care services.

Once a vibrant tapestry of lush, emerald fields swaying under the golden sun, Narail’s farmland now bears the heavy scars of an insidious enemy — salinity. Across the district’s rivers and canals, salt is stealthily tightening its grip, casting a long shadow over the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. Where once farmers gleefully drew life from the surface waters, today they find themselves shackled by the bitter reality of saline rivers and canals. Forced to abandon traditional irrigation methods, they now turn to the bowels of the earth for groundwater, a desperate measure that is doubling their production costs and dimming the hopes of an agricultural bounty. Gone are the days when Narail’s fertile fields would yield three crops a year. Now, in many areas, farmers struggle to coax even a single harvest from the stubborn soil — a plight that weighs heaviest on the district’s marginal farmers. Dr Md Motasim Ahmed, Chief Scientific Officer of the Soil Resource Development Institute in Jashore, paints a grim picture. Speaking of the rivers — the Madhumati at Kalnaghat in Lohagara upazila, the Nabaganga at Baroipara in Kalia upazila, and the Chitra and Afra rivers in Narail Sadar upazila — he notes that these once-bountiful waterways now suffer from seasonal salinity. It was back in 2000 that the first signs of trouble surfaced: salinity detected across some 16,000 hectares of land. Salinity-tolerant rice cultivation brings delight to Barguna farmers By 2009, the affected area had expanded to around 19,000 hectares — a creeping blight whose full extent today remains unknown, as the results of last year’s survey have yet to be unveiled. Dr Motasim explains that the flow of freshwater from upstream, particularly from the Farakka Barrage, plays a decisive role. “Higher water flow could reduce salinity levels,” he says, “while reduced flow only deepens the crisis.” Rainfall, too, holds sway — abundant rains wash away salt, while drought years leave the land parched and saline-choked. According to Dr Motasim, the acceptable threshold for irrigation water salinity stands at 0.75 deciSiemens per metre (dS/m). Disturbingly, water samples from Narail’s rivers and canals reveal salinity levels reaching a staggering 1.75 dS/m — rendering the water unsuitable for cultivation. The stakes are high. The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Narail reports that the district — spread across 968 square kilometres and home to about 800,000 souls — relies overwhelmingly on agriculture and fisheries, with nearly 82 percent of its people drawing their sustenance from these endeavours. Boro rice cultivation, a seasonal ritual for marginal farmers, now teeters on the brink. Farmers like Pabitra Majumdar from Bashvita village in Sadar upazila share a story of struggle and heartbreak. "Fifteen years ago, I could irrigate my land using river or canal water," he reminisces wistfully. "But now, the water has become too saline." Forced to rely on groundwater, Pabitra spent about Tk 22,000 this year on irrigation for his two acres of land — a cost that would have been significantly lower had surface water remained viable. Across Narail, the tale repeats itself. In Kalia upazila’s Kanchanpur village, Pickul Sheikh recounts his burden, "Earlier, I needed Tk 2,500 to irrigate one bigha (33 decimals) of land. Now, extracting groundwater costs me Tk 7,000 to 8,000 per bigha." The salty siege has not only driven up costs but also ravaged crops and soils, compelling farmers to pour even more fertiliser into their withering fields. "We used to grow three crops a year," laments Pickul. "Now, due to rising costs and saline water, we sometimes cannot even produce one crop." Narail Sadar Upazila Agriculture Officer, Md Rokonuzzaman, acknowledges the dire circumstances. Farmers, he says, are battling soil degradation by using more fertilisers — an expensive and often futile effort. Sundarbans Day: Biodiversity under threat as salinity increases Amidst the despair, glimmers of hope persist. Farmers are being encouraged to cultivate salt-tolerant crops, adapting to the new realities with resilience and innovation. Md Jasim Uddin, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension in Narail, stresses the importance of revitalising the region’s natural irrigation systems. "Canals in many low-lying areas have silted up, reducing tidal flow and freshwater availability," he observes. "We need to re-excavate these canals to increase the flow of sweet water. If farmers can once again use river and canal water for irrigation, their costs will go down and they can return to growing three crops annually," he added. He further highlights efforts to promote the cultivation of salt-tolerant varieties of paddy, wheat, maize, and sunflower, with agricultural officers working tirelessly in the fields to guide and support the farmers. Yet the salinity crisis gripping Narail is but a reflection of a greater calamity unfolding across Bangladesh’s southern coastal belt. Rising sea levels, more frequent cyclones, and upstream freshwater withdrawal have conspired to drive saline waters deeper inland, particularly during the arid dry season. Districts such as Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat, and parts of Barisal are bearing the brunt of this saline onslaught, as once-fertile lands fade into barrenness, threatening the livelihoods of millions and posing grave concerns for food security in the nation. Bangladeshi scientists unveil full genome sequence of salinity, flood-tolerant rice In Narail, the farmers’ battle against the creeping salt is both a fight for survival and a testament to their undying spirit — as they dig deeper, quite literally, for the waters that once flowed freely under the open skies.

A 350-meter road stretching from the Adarsha to Tinkona intersections in Balarhat of Phulbari upazila in Kurigram district has become virtually useless due to long-term neglect on the part of the authorities concerned. The absence of a drainage system means even light rainfall leads to this important artery becoming submerged in knee-deep muddy water, causing severe hardship for commuters. As a result, the road is causing extreme suffering to the pedestrians, causing small and big accidents almost every day. During a recent visit to the site, the UNB correspondent found that the road, passing through the historic Balarhat Bazar from Adarsha intersection to Naodanga Union Parishad and ending at Tinkona intersection (Phulbari Road), is riddled with potholes and mud, rendering it unfit for travel. The road’s asphalt and brick have worn away, creating craters of all sizes, forcing people to go to their designated place wading through muddy water. Besides, there is no drainage due to structures lining both sides, meaning water accumulates during rains and takes days to clear. Sylhet-Zakiganj-Biyanibazar road in dire straits; more than 15 lakh people suffer This road serves key institutions like Balarhat Adarsha School and College, Naodanga School and College, Balarhat Girls’ High School, Balarhat Government Primary School, Kurushafurusha Government Primary School, Shefali Kindergarten, ASHA and Grameen Bank, Gajerkuti and Balatari Government Primary Schools and the Balarhat BGB camp, as well as the Naodanga Union Parishad. Over 400-500 students risk navigating this hazardous road daily with muddy water splashing onto their clothes when vehicles pass, leaving parents in constant worry. Various vehicles including motorcycles, auto vans, auto rickshaws, bicycles are often victims of small and big accidents. On the western side of Balarhat Bazar, the 200-meter road leading to Naodanga School and College, Naodanga Land Office, Balarhat Central Jame Mosque, cattle and betel nut markets, and Balarhat DS Dakhil Madrasa is in equally deplorable condition. Unrepaired for years and lacking drainage, it turns into knee-deep water during rains, causing immense suffering for students and thousands of pedestrians. When speaking local traders Rezaul Islam Reza, Piton Pal, Abu Taher, and Rafiqul Islam said that Balarhat hosts bustling markets on Saturdays and Tuesdays, with cattle, goats, betel nuts, clothing, rice, furniture, poultry and bicycles traded. Thousands flock to the market from far and wide, generating millions in government revenue annually. Dilapidated road hampers trade through Sheola land port Despite daily use of the road by local officials like the chairman and members, no action has been taken. Talking to some students,  Shubhoshree Roy, Tanzila Akter (Adarsha School and College) and Hiyamoni (Naodanga School and College) lamented that as there is no alternative road, so they are forced to travel on muddy roads with risk. The road is particularly impassable during rains and remains hazardous even in the dry season. Abdul Hanif Sarker, a principal of Naodanga School and College and Moniruzzaman Sarker, acting principal of Balarhat Adarsha School and College stated that over 300 students from their institutions alone use this road, alongside thousands of others facing similar struggles. The suffering peaks during the monsoon and they urged immediate repairs through intervention by the local UP chairman and upazila administration. Naodanga Union Parishad Chairman Hasen Ali clarifies that the 200-meter road near the Jame Mosque in western Balarhat and the 200-meter stretch from Tinkona intersection to Adarsha intersection fall under the LGED office, while the 100-meter section from Naodanga Union Parishad to Adarsha intersection is under the Zila Parishad’s jurisdiction. Despite multiple appeals to relevant authorities, no progress has been made. People suffering due to dilapidated road in Munshiganj The UP chairman also demanded swift action from authorities to repair the road. Phulbari Upazila Engineer Mamunur Rahman, assured that the issue of repairing the roads on the eastern and western sides of Balarhat Bazar, including near the Central Jame Mosque, will be urgently raised with higher authorities within the next few days for prompt resolution.  

The government is likely to appoint officials from administration cadre alongside existing employees in the proposed Revenue Management Division, according to a draft law recently approved by the Advisory Council. According to the draft law which lays out the structure for the new division,  “Various posts in the administrative division of the Revenue Management Division will be filled from the Bangladesh Civil Service (Administration) cadre and employees working in the National Board of Revenue (NBR).” The interim government has already cleared the draft law which seeks to split the National Board of Revenue (NBR) into two separate entities: the Revenue Policy Division and the Revenue Management Division. NBR officials may ‘lose grip’ as govt plans new revenue division It was proposed by the committee to provide recommendations on tax policy reforms, improvements in tax administration, automation and other related matters. The government formed the committee on October 9 last year, comprising former NBR chairmen Muhammad Abdul Mazid and Nasiruddin Ahmed and former NBR members Delwar Hossain and Aminur Rahman. According to the proposed law, it is necessary to separate the government's revenue policy formulation activities and revenue collection management activities. The proposed law says it is necessary to create a Revenue Policy Division and a Revenue Management Division by restructuring the current system to make revenue collection more transparent, accountable and efficient. As Parliament is dissolved, the President will promulgate the ordinance under Article 93(1) of the Constitution, to be titled The Revenue Policy and Revenue Management Ordinance, 2025. Once the ordinance is promulgated, the government will establish the Revenue Management Division under the Ministry of Finance through a gazette notification. NBR tightens law to prevent abuse of bond law and facilities The government will formulate an appropriate organizational structure for the Revenue Management Department. The draft law mentioned that Government will give priority to a qualified government servant with experience in revenue collection work in the appointment of Secretary/Senior Secretary of the Revenue Management Department. According to the NBR officials, this clause will pave the way for the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner (Land) to be eligible for getting any post in the priposed Revenue Management Division saying that these two posts also involved with revenue collection like the other NBR officials. It also said that Recruitment will be made from the Bangladesh Civil Service (Customs and Excise) and Bangladesh Civil Service (Tax) cadres for various posts in the Income Tax, Value Added Tax and Customs Law implementation related sub-divisions of the Revenue Management Division. The proposed law said that posts assigned by the Revenue Management Division in the field level implementation of the laws mentioned in the schedule shall be fillable from the officers working in the Bangladesh Civil Service (Tax), Bangladesh Civil Service (Customs and Excise) cadre and the field level employees of the Revenue Management Division. The Revenue Management Division shall be the controlling authority of the officers working in the Bangladesh Civil Service (Tax) and Bangladesh Civil Service (Customs and Excise) cadre. The Revenue Management Division shall perform all departmental activities related to the appointment, promotion, posting and discipline of all employees outside its cadre. The Income Tax Appeal and Customs and Value Added Tax Appeal Offices shall be under the administrative control of the Revenue Management Division. Scope of work of the Revenue  Management Division. The Revenue Management Division shall perform the following functions, namely:- (a) Enforcement of the laws and related rules as mentioned in the Schedule. (b) Proper implementation of international agreements relating to customs. (c) Proper implementation of international agreements relating to the avoidance of double taxation. (d) Human resource management of the Bangladesh Civil Service (Customs and Excise) and Bangladesh Civil Service (Tax) cadres. (e) Non-cadre human resource management of the Revenue Management Division and its subordinate departments. (f) Strengthening tax services, incentive programs and taking effective initiatives to bring everyone into the tax net with the aim of expanding the tax base. (g) Budget preparation, budget implementation and logistics related activities of the Revenue Management Division. (h) Formulation of procedures related to revenue management; (i) To undertake and implement necessary projects to increase the efficiency, effectiveness and dynamism of revenue management activities and to ensure transparency and accountability. (j) Supervision and management of subordinate offices. (k) To complete comprehensive automation activities quickly by establishing interconnection between the inter-wings of the Revenue Management Department and the Revenue Policy Department and all the related departments. (l) To coordinate with the Revenue Policy Department on various issues related to revenue policy formulation and implementation, to provide necessary training to develop skilled manpower and to conduct audit and intelligence activities; and (l) To perform any other duties assigned by the government. The draft further states that  once the Revenue Policy Division and Revenue Management Division are established, the current manpower of the National Board of Revenue will be transferred to the Revenue Management Division. From this manpower pool, necessary postings will be made to the Revenue Policy Division based on the committee’s recommendations. At the same time, the existing Internal Resources Division will be abolished, and its manpower will be vested in the Revenue Policy Division. The government will also appropriately divide the Internal Resources Division’s current functions between the Revenue Policy Division and other departments under the Finance Ministry. Both the Revenue Policy and Revenue Management Divisions will be authorised to frame rules, issue orders, and provide clarifications as necessary for smooth functioning.              

As temperatures rise, prolonged heatwaves and increasingly erratic weather patterns are expected to intensify public discomfort in Dhaka in the coming months. Several regions across the country have been experiencing mild to moderate heatwaves since late March — a trend showing no signs of abating. Experts say that the mid-April temperature surge already resembles peak summer conditions, warning that intense heat and extended heatwaves may dominate most of the year, disrupting daily life.  Meteorologists predict further rises in temperature from late April through the middle of the year. According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), this month’s temperatures are likely to remain above normal, with an elevated risk of severe heatwaves across the country. Climate change has significantly altered Bangladesh’s weather patterns, impacting natural ecosystems, agriculture, livelihoods, and the broader economy.  Temperature may rise slightly in 24 hrs The country’s once-distinct six seasons are becoming increasingly blurred, with winter ending prematurely and summer-like heat beginning well before the official start of the season. As in recent years, BMD sources expect this year’s summer and monsoon seasons to be prolonged. Annual reports from the Met Office show that just a decade ago, Bangladesh regularly experienced prolonged cold spells in January and February, with dense fog and temperatures dropping to 7–8°C in parts of northern Bangladesh.  In contrast, the average minimum temperature this January stood at 13.6°C — about one degree higher than the previous year. Professor Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder, Chairman of the Centre for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), told UNB that the average temperature in Dhaka has risen by over 3°C in the past 7–8 years. Winter-weary East Coast hit with another storm as temperatures plunge elsewhere “In 2017, the average temperature in areas under Dhaka South City Corporation was 33.50°C, which climbed to 36.54°C in 2024. The trend suggests a further rise by mid-2025. Dhaka North City Corporation has seen an even steeper increase — nearly 4°C. The average there jumped from 33.39°C in 2017 to 37.38°C last year,” he said. According to CAPS data, the most dramatic temperature increase was recorded in Mohakhali, where the average rose from 33.50°C in 2017 to 41.5°C in 2024 — a staggering 7.5°C rise. Areas such as Tejgaon, Mirpur-10, and Farmgate also saw temperature increases of over 3.5°C during the same period. He noted that heatwaves began affecting various regions from late March and are still ongoing. While some areas, including Dhaka, have experienced nor’westers, temperatures are likely to rise further. Professor Kamruzzaman emphasised the urgency of adopting climate-resilient policies and effective environmental measures.  “Only three of the six seasons are now discernible — summer, monsoon, and a shortened winter. Seasons like autumn, late autumn, and spring are gradually vanishing. Although several recommendations were made last year during extreme heat conditions and some government initiatives were taken, little progress is visible,” he said.  He blamed global warming, deforestation, unplanned urbanisation, and carbon emissions for causing severe disruptions. “If immediate steps aren’t taken, the situation may worsen in the coming years,” he warned. Chuadanga sees sudden fall in temperature Bazlur Rashid, a meteorologist at the BMD, told UNB that this year is also likely to experience higher-than-usual temperatures.  “While it is hard to pinpoint exactly when the temperature will peak, the mid-April heat indicates it may escalate soon,” he added. He pointed out a shift in heatwave patterns — previously beginning in March, they now start later and last longer. This year’s heat build-up began in late March and is expected to continue. Senior meteorologist Abul Kalam Mallik said climate change is impacting agricultural output, biodiversity, and overall living standards.  “The once six-season cycle is rapidly collapsing. Irregular rainfall, extreme heat, and prolonged droughts are becoming the new reality,” he said. Dr Farhina Ahmed, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, said the Paris Climate Agreement target of limiting global warming to below 1.5°C has already been breached. “Accumulated greenhouse gases from fossil fuels continue to heat the planet. In Bangladesh, forest coverage has declined alarmingly, and rural water bodies are disappearing as canals and ponds are filled in. This loss of natural cooling agents is exacerbating the rise in temperature,” she said.      

For decades, the Charkhai-Sheola-Dubag road in Biyanibazar was a tranquil route, flanked by dense green foliage and the soothing rustle of leaves overhead.  The tall trees that stood sentinel on either side of the road not only provided a cool canopy for pedestrians and vehicles alike, but also served as vital shelter for birds and small wildlife. Today, that peaceful picture has vanished. In a dramatic and controversial transformation, more than 3,000 trees were recently felled to make way for a long-anticipated infrastructure initiative: the Sylhet-Charikhai-Sheola Highway Development Project.  Bangladeshi stone worker detained by BSF  from Sylhet border The once-green corridor now lies exposed, its barren path shimmering under the unforgiving sun. Yet despite the sweeping clearance and the environmental cost, the future of the Tk 42.57 billion mega project remains uncertain. On 13 February, the project’s director, Khan Md Kamrul Ahsan, suspended a tender for vehicle rentals meant to support project supervision.  The decision has only added to mounting questions about the project’s fate.  Simultaneously, the critical phase of land acquisition—essential to the project’s progression—has ground to a halt. The initial clearing of trees began after a formal notice was issued on 1 September last year by Mir Mukut Md Abu Sayeed, Executive Arboriculturist of the Roads and Highways Department.  Blockade on Lalmonirhat-Burimari rail route continues for 5th day The notice authorised the auctioning of trees along two key routes: the Sylhet-Golapganj-Charikhai-Jakiganj road (R-250), from Kadamtoli to Charikhai, and the Sheola-Charikhai road (R-281), from Sheola Bridge to Dubag point. The felling operation proceeded swiftly across 32 auction lots, sparking criticism and concern among local residents and environmental advocates. One such voice is Mufti Shabbir Ahmad, former vice-chairman of the Biyanibazar Upazila Parishad, who mourned the loss of the green cover that once characterised the region.  “These trees provided shade to pedestrians for decades, and birds chirped from their branches. Cutting them all down has dealt a serious blow to the local environment,” he said. The road expansion was envisioned as a crucial step towards improving passenger and freight movement between Sylhet and the Sheola land port, a growing trade hub along the Bangladesh-India border. According to the Roads and Highways Department, the total cost of the project stands at Tk 42.57 billion. Of this, the World Bank has pledged Tk 28.87 billion in loans, while the remaining Tk 13.70 billion is expected to be covered by the government. The project’s scope is both vast and ambitious. It involves the acquisition of 247.13 acres of land, 4.28 million cubic feet of earthworks, and 42.985 kilometres of pavement construction.  The design also includes 1,575 person-months of consultancy services, the building of 31 culverts, three bridges, one flyover, six overpasses, two underpasses, four footbridges, seven pedestrian crossings, and a toll plaza. Road crash in Pabna leaves 2 SSC candidates dead  Although listed as an unauthorised new project under the 2022–2023 Annual Development Programme (ADP), its inclusion was meant to facilitate external financing and fast-track its implementation. Yet, visible progress remains elusive. In response to growing doubts, Project Director Khan Md Kamrul Ahsan attempted to allay fears.  “The project has not been cancelled — we are simply progressing at a slower pace,” he said, without elaborating on a concrete timeline for resumption. However, with no developments on land acquisition and no visible on-site activity, locals are beginning to lose faith. Many now question whether the irreversible damage to the local environment—especially the loss of thousands of trees—was worth it. For the people of Biyanibazar, what was once a beacon of promise has become a symbol of uncertainty. The road, now stripped of its soul, stands as a stark reminder of what has been lost—and what may never be realised.