United News of Bangladesh

The stalled construction of a bridge over the 'Dead Teesta River' in Kaunia upazila of Rangpur has left the residents of five remote char villages facing severe hardship, cut off from key services and facilities for years. Despite the completion of its pillar work four years ago, no further progress has been made on the 76-metre bridge at Masterpara in Dakkhin Thakurdas area, as the funding issues continue to cripple the project. Locals from Char Chatura, Mayar Char, Char Uttar Thakurdas, Char Pallimari and Char Najirdah villages rely on this route to access Banglabazar, the upazila headquarters and Haragachh municipality. With the bridge remained incomplete, their daily lives remain disrupted. The Haragachh municipality initiated the construction under the government’s development budget with plans to complete it in phases. In 2019, Messrs Mamun Construction was awarded the first contract, worth Tk 36 lakh, to build part of the bridge. The contractor managed to finish approximately 80 percent of the assigned work before suspending construction in 2020. Later that year, in November, another contractor, Nur Islam Enterprise, was tasked with completing the slabs, beams and railings under a second tender valued at Tk 29 lakh. But, the firm halted its operations after finishing only about half the work in 2021, again citing funding issues. “There was no structural design for the bridge and the allocated funds didn’t match the actual estimated cost. Panic grips Shariatpur residents as erosion resumes near Padma Bridge Besides, the municipality created significant difficulties in releasing payments,” said Nur Alam Lablu, owner of Nur Islam Enterprise. “That’s why we suspended work after completing half the project,” he said. When the UNB correspondent visited the site, the bridge’s pillars stood abandoned in the dry riverbed. Locals confirmed that work has remained suspended for the past four years. During the monsoon, residents are forced to cross the river using banana rafts or small boats, while in the dry season, they trudge through knee-deep mud—posing risks and inconvenience. Kajal Ahmed, a resident of Thakurdas, said, “People from the char areas have long demanded a bridge over the 'Dead Teesta.' Though construction started, it was never finished. Students now cross the river using rafts or small boats, risking their lives.” Transporting agricultural goods has also become a pressing challenge. “If someone falls sick, it becomes nearly impossible to take them to the hospital on time,” said Mahabul Islam of Shankharipara village on the north side of the river. Sumaiya Akhter, a fourth-grader at Shankharipara Government Primary School, shared her struggles, “Sometimes we cross the river on banana rafts. If we fall into the water, our books and clothes get soaked and we can’t go to school that day.” Assistant Engineer of Haragachh Municipality, Md Hamidur Rahman, said the bridge is being constructed in phases using funds from the development budget. “So far, the pillars, pier caps and abutments have been completed," he said. He estimated that completing the bridge would require an additional Tk 1.2 crore to cover 10 more slabs, railings and around 120 metres of approach road on both sides. Eight villages cut off as bamboo bridge lies broken for a month in Kurigram “We have approached the authorities in Dhaka for funding. Once allocated, the remaining work will be completed through new tenders,” he said. Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Haragachh Municipality Administrator Md Mohidul Haque said, “I have just taken charge. I will look into the issue of the bridge construction and share details once I gather more information.” As the bridge continues to remain in limbo, the people of these char villages can only hope for swift intervention to bring an end to years of isolation and struggle. About 'Dead Teesta' On July 26 in 2021, after almost two hundred years the ‘Dead Teesta River,’ a distributary of the main ‘Teesta River,’ has emerged and it had no existence a little while ago. Over time, the river had transformed into fertile land in some places, grazing land in others, and in some areas, it had taken the form of ponds. The river has been connected to the main channels of the Chikli and Jamuneswari rivers. After the revival, this river has been filled with water during the current monsoon season.

The government is set to amend the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2009, introducing tougher penalties and revising key provisions to enhance transparency and strengthen citizens’ access to information. Under the proposed changes, any attempt to withhold official information will attract a fine five times higher than the current amount. Four crucial sections of the existing law are set to be revised to facilitate smoother information flow, enhance administrative transparency, uphold citizens’ rights, and curb corruption. According to sources at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the amended law will stipulate a fine of Tk 250 per day for withholding information, up from the current Tk 50, capped at a maximum of Tk 25,000 instead of Tk 5,000. The draft also specifies that if information is withheld with the intent to conceal corruption or wrongdoing, the imposition of the fine will be mandatory. Sections Proposed for Amendments The proposed amendments will affect Sections 5, 6, 7, and 27 of the RTI Act, in line with the recommendations of the Public Administration Reform Commission (PARC). The Commission submitted its report to Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on February 5. The report emphasised the need for reviewing and amending the Act to ensure that citizens can freely and easily access information related to public services. Interim govt plans large-scale promotion drive to boost bureaucracy Mandatory Preservation and Digitalisation of Information The revised Section 5 will require every public body to prepare a catalogue and index of all information and preserve it using computers or suitable technology. These records, including files, manuscripts, microfilms, images, audio or any form of digital data, must be connected to a nationwide e-network for easy access. Mandatory Publication and Dissemination Section 6, as amended, will obligate each authority to publish and disseminate information about adopted, ongoing, and proposed activities. This will include proposed budgets, actual income and expenditure, procurement decisions, tender outcomes, contracts and audit reports, project expenses, and reports on the use of public funds. The aim is to ensure that these details are regularly made public to guarantee citizens' right to information. Exceptions in Public Interest While the current law allows certain information to be withheld, the revised Section 7 will introduce clearer and stricter guidelines. Two new sub-sections will be added, defining under which circumstances and how information may be withheld, based on transparent standards. Bangladesh govt urges all to avoid misleading narratives, uphold public harmony Increase in Fine Currently, officials found guilty of withholding information are fined Tk 50 per day up to a maximum of Tk 5,000. The revised Section 27 increases this to Tk 250 per day, capped at Tk 25,000. Besides, if it is proven that the information was withheld to cover up corruption or criminal acts, the fine will be compulsory. Khadiza Tahera Boby, Deputy Secretary at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, told UNB, “The law is being reviewed following the recommendations of the Public Administration Reform Commission. An inter-ministerial meeting has already been held, and opinions on the draft are currently being collected.” She said public opinion will be accepted until July 31, after which the process will be finalised and the revised law placed before Parliament.

As Bangladesh sees sharp rise in violence against women and children, the government has taken a move to address the issue through a coordinated, community-based response mechanism involving government departments, agencies and non-government organizations. It also aimed at strengthening integrated service activities and ensuring  necessary emergency services to survivors through the activities of Quick Response Teams. The Tk 309.39 crore project titled, ‘Strengthening integrated services to prevent and remedy violence against women and children and activities of the Quick Response Team’ will be implemented from July 2025 to December 2029 with the government funding. Ministry of Women and Children Affairs will implement the project  through the Department of Women Affairs. According to an official document, the initiative aims to reinforce collaboration between various government agencies, private sector entities, and civil society to curb violence against women and children. Besides, through the Quick Response Teams, survivors will receive prompt emergency services, ensuring better protection and support. Violence against women in first half of 2025 shows sharp increase over previous 2 years Key activities of the project include outsourcing services for survivor support, organising research, seminars, workshops, and community meetings, procuring hygiene materials, ensuring transportation facilities, managing internet and short-code systems, promoting awareness campaigns, and providing technological equipment like computers. The background of the project traces back to the “Multi-Sectoral Programme on Violence Against Women,” first launched as a pilot initiative in May 2000. Since then, the programme has been implemented in phases, continuing until June, 2024. The initiative has established 14 One-Stop Crisis Centres (OCCs), the National Forensic DNA Profiling Laboratory, 8 divisional DNA screening labs, and 67 One-Stop Crisis Cells across the country. The new project seeks to continue and expand these services, incorporating local administrations, NGOs, civil society organizations, students, and teachers to build a community-based response mechanism. The Planning Commission, as per the document, thinks through the project women's empowerment, child protection will be ensured and of child marriage, child abuse will be stopped in Bangladesh that will consolidate national social security. Through this project, a system for preventing violence against women and children will be established at the local and national levels with the participation and leadership of local administration and non-governmental organizations, CSOs, students, and teachers, especially through the formation of quick response teams to provide emergency services to prevent violence against women and children, it added. Despite years of activism and policy reforms, violence against women and children in Bangladesh remains a critical human rights concern. Reports from various human rights organizations and government agencies continue to highlight a alarming rise in incidents of domestic abuse, sexual violence, child marriage, and trafficking. According to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), over 1,200 women faced rape in 2024, while many others were subjected to physical torture, dowry-related violence, and harassment. Children, especially girls, are also increasingly becoming targets of abuse. Child marriage, though legally prohibited, persists at alarming rates, particularly in rural areas. A UNICEF report states that Bangladesh has one of the highest rates of child marriage globally, with nearly 51% of girls married before the age of 18. Can technology offer a hope against soaring sexual violence in Bangladesh? Societal stigma, fear of retaliation, and lack of trust in the legal system often discourage survivors from seeking justice.The government has implemented various initiatives, including special tribunals, helplines, and the establishment of One-Stop Crisis Centres (OCCs) in major hospitals. However, rights groups argue that enforcement remains weak and perpetrators frequently enjoy impunity. Activists call for comprehensive reforms to ensure swift justice, better protection services, and widespread community education to change entrenched patriarchal attitudes.

International journalists have expressed strong optimism about the upcoming parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, expected to take place in the second week of February 2026 under the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus. Renowned for his commitment to social change and integrity, Professor Yunus is expected to oversee a voting process that prioritises fairness and transparency. As reporters from various countries highlight the significance of this election, many believe that Yunus’ leadership could restore faith in the democratic process, marking a crucial  moment not only for Bangladesh but also for observers around the world. In recent discussions, journalists noted that the involvement of Professor Yunus could usher in much-needed reforms in the electoral system.  Foreign journalists laud Prof Yunus for leading Bangladesh interim govt successfully His global reputation as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and pioneer of economic and social development has earned admiration both at home and abroad. His past efforts to promote social responsibility and democracy lend further credibility to hopes that the elections will be conducted in a free and credible manner. Kisho Kumari, a journalist from Malaysia, said, “If Yunus leads the process, I believe the election will be fair and transparent. His reputation for honesty gives confidence to many observers.” Kenyan journalist Brian Ngugi remarked that Bangladesh has an opportunity to hold a credible election that reflects the will of its people. “Yunus’ leadership can make a big difference,” Brian added. Nik Mohammad Nikmal, Editor-in-Chief of The Kabul Times Daily, said he closely observes and sincerely admires the courage and democratic resolve of the people of Bangladesh as they prepare for free, fair, and transparent elections under the leadership of Prof Yunus. “This election stands as a historic opportunity for the citizens of Bangladesh to raise their voices and decide the future of their nation,” he added. “I believe this process will serve as a remarkable example of democracy, transparency, and unity, offering the people of Bangladesh a chance to express their will and shape their destiny. It will demonstrate that courageous nations can come together, embrace change, and take control of their future through peaceful and fair means.” He also extended heartfelt wishes for peace, success, and a brighter future to the people of Bangladesh. Bangladesh Election Commission seeks to regain authority to cancel entire constituency polls International media outlets have been closely following developments in Bangladesh and have reported growing support for Professor Yunus. Comments from journalists point to the high level of public anticipation for an election that truly reflects the people’s will.  They emphasise the importance of ensuring that all citizens can participate freely, without fear or intimidation. Shahrokh Saei, a journalist from Iran, said, as Bangladesh prepares for its national elections next year, the nation stands at a pivotal moment in its democratic journey.  The interim government, led by the esteemed Nobel laureate and economist Prof Muhammad Yunus, has instilled a renewed sense of hope among the people.  With his unwavering commitment to democratic principles, Prof Yunus has assured the nation that the upcoming polls will be free, fair, and transparent, a testament to Bangladesh’s growing political maturity, he added. Saei noted that Prof Yunus, a globally revered figure, has long been recognised for his visionary leadership and dedication to social justice. His recent role as Chief Adviser of the caretaker government has further solidified his reputation as a unifying force capable of steering Bangladesh through this critical transition. Ensure financial security, protection of journalists to achieve media freedom: Speakers His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, coupled with his strong international credibility, makes him uniquely qualified to oversee an election that meets the highest democratic standards. Under his stewardship, Bangladesh is not only poised to conduct a credible election but also to strengthen its institutions and reinforce public trust in governance, Saei said. Rajaram Gautam, a Nepalese journalist, said that Bangladesh is currently in a political transition under interim leader Muhammad Yunus, following protests against Sheikh Hasina in July 2024. “The main challenge is to restore stability and hold free, fair and transparent elections as soon as possible. Despite government commitments and mounting pressure to schedule elections, ensuring a credible electoral process amid ongoing political uncertainty remains difficult,” he said. “Yunus, a respected international figure without a political background, faces a crucial test to lead Bangladesh through this transition and establish a legitimate government through democratic elections. And I hope Yunus will be able to conduct elections that are free, fair, and transparent to legitimise the country's democratic process,” Gautam added. The international community has already expressed confidence in Professor Yunus’ leadership, recognising his integrity and impartiality. As Bangladesh moves towards this historic election, there is a palpable optimism that Professor Yunus’s interim government will set a new benchmark for electoral integrity in the country. In a world where democratic processes are often marred by controversy, Bangladesh has a golden opportunity to showcase its commitment to democracy under Professor Yunus’ guidance. His leadership promises not only a smooth electoral process but also a brighter, more inclusive future for the nation.   The people of Bangladesh, along with the global community, eagerly await an election that reflects their aspirations—one conducted with transparency, fairness, and the spirit of progress that Professor Yunus embodies. Bangladesh Election: EC forms five committees to accelerate preparations   As the country gears up for this crucial event, the eyes of the world will be on Bangladesh. Journalists are keen to witness how Professor Muhammad Yunus can influence positive change in the political landscape, creating a benchmark for future elections in the region. Regardless of the outcomes, this election is seen as a critical step forward for democracy in Bangladesh and may serve as a model for other nations facing similar challenges.

The government has initiated the long-awaited promotion process for officials to the ranks of deputy secretary and additional secretary, with the move now at the final stage, sources at the Ministry of Public Administration said. The ministry is expected to issue promotion orders by the last week of July for eligible senior assistant secretaries to become deputy secretaries, followed by the promotion of joint secretaries to additional secretaries next month, they added. According to officials familiar with the matter, the Superior Selection Board (SSB), chaired by Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, has already held several meetings to assess the service records, discipline, integrity and family background of eligible officers. A few more meetings are likely before the final list is approved. More than 700 officers are currently being reviewed for promotion by the SSB. The deputy secretary level promotions are likely to be implemented within this month while promotions to additional secretary are expected in August, said a senior official. The last SSB meeting was held on July 8. 30th BCS Officers  Officers from the 30th BCS batch, who joined government service on June 3, 2012, became eligible for promotion to deputy secretary on June 3, 2022. Due to various reasons, including political changes and formation of an interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus in August 2024 the promotions were deferred. In January this year, the Ministry of Public Administration invited information for promotions. 764 deprived officials under AL get merit-based promotions Since then, the SSB has reviewed the profiles of 319 officers from the 30th BCS (including 277 from administration cadre) and 223 officers from other cadres who applied through the DS Pool. Based on evaluations, 250 to 280 officers are likely to be promoted in the first phase. 20th BCS Officers   Meanwhile, officers from the 20th BCS batch are under consideration for promotion to additional secretary. Although they became eligible in 2019 they were promoted to joint secretary in 2021, making them eligible for further promotion in 2023. Now, after a delay, that promotion appears imminent. Over 300 officers, including 244 from the administration cadre, are being considered for the higher post. Sources said 43 officers from the same batch who served as Deputy Commissioners (DCs) under the previous government may not be included in the list. According to the officials concerned, the number of officials currently holding the rank of additional secretary stands at 370, against 212 approved posts. Besides, there are 1,034 joint secretaries against 502 sanctioned positions. Lobbying intensifies as govt prepares for 'Special Cadre' promotions In the case of deputy secretaries, 1,402 officers are serving in 1,420 approved posts (including supernumerary positions), indicating that promotions may not lead to new postings but rather elevation in rank while continuing in existing roles. As per the promotion rules, officials become eligible for promotion to deputy secretary after five years as senior assistant secretary and at least 10 years of government service. The 30th BCS batch officers fulfilled those criteria three years ago but their promotions have remained pending until now.  

Service seekers in Chatul Union land office under Boalmari upazila of Faridpur have raised serious allegations of rampant 'bribery and harassment'.  Locals said no land-related service is delivered without paying 'extra money', forcing many to wait for days in the corridors unless 'unofficial' payments are made. From mutation to obtaining khatians (land owners official numbers and descriptions), investigation reports, or even paying land taxes, victims allege that every step involves bribes. Surrounding the Tahsil office, several computer shops offer online land-related services.  These shops are known to bring clients to the tahsildar (revenue collector), acting as middlemen, locals alleged.  Although the government mutation fee is officially Tk 1,170, clients are reportedly being charged between Tk 2,000 and Tk 10,000 depending on the case.  Expatriates remain a prime target of these agents. Talking to this correspondent, several locals, including former Zila Parishad member Ahsan Habib, Niyamul Haque Faisal of Baikhir village and Milon Sheikh of Baikhir Chourasta said no files are forwarded to seniors without bribes.  Circular to be issued to take strict action against those involved in corruption in land offices None of their mutation cases were resolved for less than Tk 4,000–5,000, they alleged.  Shamima Yasmin, an expatriate based in Italy, said she needed an urgent mutation for a piece of land in Chatul Union ahead of her July 10 flight. “I thought the digitalisation of land services would ease the process. After submitting the online application and required documents, I approached the land office. But they wouldn’t forward the file without extra payment,” she said. Eventually, she had to send Tk 1,000 through her brother to get the job done. Echoing similar frustration, Ehramuzzaman, son of the late Ashrafuzzaman Saifar Miah, said, “My father passed away some time ago. I went to the Chatul Land Office for mutation of inherited property. After several visits, the tahsildar told me that unless I paid for ‘office expenses’, the file wouldn’t move. I finally paid Tk 1,000 to get it done.” Nazmul Hossain, a Saudi expatriate, came from Chapaldanga of Gunboha Union to get a mutation done for 8 decimals of land. “Besides, the official fee, I paid Tk 10,000 and was promised the work would be done within a week,” he said. Chatul Union Parishad Chairman Rafiqul Islam said, "I’ve heard many complaints about the tahsildar from locals, though I haven’t personally visited the office.” 1, 333 more city and union land offices to be constructed across country: Land Minister When asked why digitalisation has not curbed harassment and corruption, Advocate Shipra Goswami, former President of Faridpur Citizens’ Committee of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), said, "The central government is keen on ensuring public services through reforms, but the message hasn’t reached the grassroots effectively. Despite efforts, land service seekers continue to suffer. District and upazila administrations must show strong commitment and strict monitoring. Only then can we root out corruption from land management.” Masud Rana, Member Secretary of the anti-discrimination student movement in Faridpur, said, “The current government is tirelessly working to ensure public services at the grassroots level. If anyone obstructs this process, we’ll launch a movement if necessary.” Hasanuzzaman, General Secretary of Faridpur’s Committee for Preventing Corruption, added, "The movement of ‘24 was about change. Those creating obstacles must be brought under the law. Close monitoring is necessary where corruption is most likely. Local citizens must also be active in identifying corrupt officials and raising their voices.” Abdullah Al Amin, Assistant Commissioner (Land) of Boalmari, said, "With the introduction of online services, corruption has reduced in many areas. But due to lack of awareness, many still fall into the trap of brokers and spend extra money. We urge people to come directly to the AC Land office instead of approaching middlemen.”  

Undeterred by infrastructural and administrative challenges, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is pressing ahead with its plan to begin overseas flights from Cox’s Bazar International Airport by the end of July. Although nearly 40 percent of the airport’s expansion work remains incomplete and complications persist over land acquisition, eviction of thousands of residents, funding shortfalls, and a lack of clearance from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), CAAB has reportedly begun preparatory work to facilitate international operations. According to CAAB sources, the decision to move forward was taken at a special meeting chaired by the then CAAB Chairman on April 21 this year. Ongoing Challenges · Construction of the airport terminal building is still nine months away from completion. · Around 3,300 families continue to reside on airport land and have yet to be evicted. · Acquisition of 4.64 acres of essential land remains pending. As ICAO approval has neither been sought nor granted, launching international flights would technically breach global aviation norms. Although an additional expenditure of nearly Tk 100 crore has been incurred, the government has yet to release the funds. CAAB is currently lobbying top government officials to address the issue. Infrastructural Progress  Notably, of the 1,700-foot runway extension into the sea, 1,300 feet lies over water—96 percent of this extension and 94 percent of the protective embankment have been completed. Ctg airport flight operations halted for 2 hours after Biman glitch Installation of the precision approach lighting system and a steel bridge is 83 percent finished, while drainage infrastructure stands at 55 percent. However, only 26 percent of the perimeter wall and patrol roads have been completed. Upon full completion, the airport runway will expand from its existing 9,000 feet to 10,700 feet. Future Prospects The airport will feature a state-of-the-art Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) system enabling safe night-time operations. Its architectural design includes illuminated pavements, flood management infrastructure, and aesthetic lighting along the seafront. Recently transferred CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman told UNB, “We are working with determination for the country’s development. Even though some tasks are pending, we are trying to launch international flights soon. Hopefully, we will be able to do so within a short period.” He went on to say, “Efforts to upgrade Cox’s Bazar Airport to international standards are underway. Despite some infrastructural and administrative challenges, we are working under the Prime Minister’s directive to launch international flights as soon as possible.” Highlighting the urgency of the project, the former chairman said, “The terminal building, runway extension, security infrastructure and lighting systems are all progressing rapidly. An advanced AGL system will be installed for night operations, meeting international standards.” Turkish Airlines flight makes emergency landing at Dhaka airport “Over 3,000 families still need to be evicted and some crucial plots are pending acquisition. However, we are coordinating with the relevant agencies on these matters. Though project costs have risen, and Tk 100 crore remains due, the government is assisting us. We hope the funds will be released soon,” he added. “We are committed to overcoming any challenge and turning Cox’s Bazar Airport into an international-standard facility. It will serve not only the tourism industry but also act as a key hub for regional connectivity,” he added. Project Background The initiative to transform Cox’s Bazar Airport into a regional hub and an alternative air connectivity centre during natural disasters was taken over a decade ago. Delays, delays in land acquisition and eviction, financial constraints, and planning inconsistencies have hampered timely execution. Project Cost The estimated cost of the project is Tk 1,794.31 crore, entirely financed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh.

The recent flooding in Feni district has left thousands of residents reeling from devastating losses across agriculture, fisheries, and livestock sectors, with the overall damage estimated at Tk 146.43 crore, according to official sources. Triggered by incessant rainfall and a surge of water from upstream regions, the flood submerged vast stretches of low-lying areas in Feni Sadar, Chhagalnaiya, Daganbhuiyan, Fulgazi and Parshuram upazilas, severely affecting daily life and livelihoods, they said. Agriculture: A Battered Backbone According to a preliminary report from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), 5,564.61 hectares of cropland have been damaged. This includes 845 hectares of Aush paddy, 537 hectares of summer vegetables, 14 hectares of chilli, seven hectares of ginger, 2.5 hectares of turmeric, 0.11 hectares of tomato, 689 hectares of Aman seedbeds, and 3,470 hectares of stored ginger. The loss has impacted an estimated 28,835 farmers, with damages amounting to Tk 38.07 crore. Kamruzzaman Chowdhury from Darbarpur Union in Fulgazi upazila said, “My entire summer Aman seedbed on three bighas of land was ruined. Every year floods ruin our crops and plunge our families into a financial crisis.” Mustafizur Rahman of Dhanikunda in Parshuram upazila said, “Five bighas of vegetable lands have been submerged and damaged during the flood. Within a year, we have faced massive losses once again. If this continues, we will have to starve.” Mohammad Atik Ullah, Deputy Director of DAE, said, “There is still a lot of water in many areas. We can assess the true loss only once the water recedes. We’re working on initial calculations and will recommend compensation for affected farmers.” ‘When waters rise, our dreams drown’: Feni cries out for sustainable future Fisheries: Livelihoods Washed Away The fisheries sector reported a total loss of Tk 8.71 crore. According to the District Fisheries Office, 276.20 metric tonnes of fish worth Tk 5.90 crore were washed away from 2,330 ponds, water bodies, and farms. Besides, 128 metric tonnes of fish fry worth Tk 3.50 lakh were destroyed, while infrastructural damages amounted to Tk 42.50 lakh. Md Alamgir, a fish farmer from Munshirhat Union, said he lost fish from three ponds totalling three bighas, resulting in a loss of Tk 2.5 lakh. “We don’t know how to recover,” he added. Abdur Rahman from Paschim Alka village in Parshuram upazila shared a similar plight. “I lost my net-enclosed pond, with all the fish swept away. Officials did not assist us properly last year either, so it’ll be impossible to recover without help.” District Fisheries Officer Aminul Islam said final reports are being prepared and a list will be sent to the government for compensation. Livestock Sector Suffers Heavy Toll Floodwaters claimed the lives of 10,600 poultry birds—1,400 in Fulgazi, 7,200 in Parshuram, and 2,000 in Chhagalnaiya. Besides, 235 ducks, three goats, one sheep and four cows were lost, according to the District Livestock Office. Animal feed and fodder were also destroyed: seven tonnes of animal feed worth Tk 2.58 lakh, 30 metric tonnes of husk worth Tk 1.70 lakh, and 160 metric tonnes of grass worth Tk 7.65 lakh. Kamal Hossain from Amjad Hat Union lamented, “I lost one cow—the only source of income. We are now destitute. If sustainable dams are not constructed, this crisis will never end.” Md Hasan, owner of Bismillah Poultry in Bijoypur, said, “Years of hard work and dreams have ended in a moment, causing a loss of Tk 4.50 lakh.” Dr Md Mozammel Haque, Feni’s Livestock Officer, said the estimated loss in this sector stands at Tk 64.89 lakh. “Compensation will be disbursed to affected and marginal farmers once officially sanctioned,” he said. Breaches and Infrastructure Damage Embankments along the Muhuri, Kahua and Sillonia rivers suffered 41 breaches across five upazilas. The Water Development Board estimates damages at nearly Tk 9 crore. Assistant Engineer Abul Kashem said, “Since July 8, breaches have occurred in 41 locations along embankments, affecting five upazilas.” Meanwhile, floodwaters damaged 126 roads covering a combined 300 kilometres in three upazilas. Feni Roads & Highways Executive Engineer Mahmud Al Faruq said the damage is valued at Tk 90 crore. Tk 7,340 cr flood control embankment to be built in Feni: Adviser Displacement and Ongoing Hardship While 9,195 flood victims have left shelter homes, 365 people from 122 families are still residing in nine centres, highlighting the prolonged effects of the disaster. This flood, though severe, follows a more devastating one in August 2024, which claimed 29 lives and affected over ten lakh people in the district. That event caused total damages of approximately Tk 2,686.205 crore—crippling roads, schools, homes, businesses and vital infrastructure. With memories of last year’s disaster still fresh, many in Feni now wonder how many more blows their communities can endure without sustainable and long-term solutions.  

Severe waterlogging in the Allardarga area of Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia district, has compelled authorities to close two schools temporarily amid rising health concerns. Nearly 1,500 students from Allahrdarga Secondary School and the private Tressel English Version School, both situated in the affected area, face serious health risks due to prolonged water accumulation following incessant rains. The school premises, including ground-floor classrooms of Allahrdarga Secondary School, remain submerged in stagnant water mixed with rotting garbage, emitting a strong, unbearable stench. The foul odour has made it increasingly difficult for students to stay in classrooms, leading to serious disruptions in academic activities. School officials have attributed the problem to the absence of a proper drainage system in the area, which has caused persistent waterlogging. Several students are reportedly suffering from skin diseases and other health complications as a result. Chattogram’s costly failure: Waterlogging persists despite mega drainage projects

What was supposed to be a blessing has turned into a source of frustration for hundreds of families living in remote char areas of Kurigram’s Ulipur upazila. A solar electrification initiative, meant to bring power to homes beyond the reach of the national grid, has instead left residents disillusioned, and still in the dark. Back in 2021, a total of 375 families from Chark Ghughurmari and Sukherbati, located in ward-8 of Saheber Alga Union, were provided with solar panels under a project reportedly managed by local public representatives and Awami League leaders and activists. Each family was asked to pay between Tk 500 and Tk 1,000 in instalments for the installation of the solar units. But, according to the residents, the panels have remained dysfunctional from the very beginning. Locals complain that the systems — comprising low-capacity panels, batteries and basic wiring — have either stopped working entirely or were never functional to begin with. Damaged batteries and faulty wiring are common, with many units rendered completely useless. Dharla’s wrath leaves over 50  families homeless in Kurigram, hundreds more at risk Residents such as Ruhul Amin, Abdur Razzak Pramanik, Abdus Sabur Pramanik and Kashem Ali said their villages still lack access to the national electricity grid. At the time of installation, they were assured that payment could be made in instalments. But within eight to nine months, many began receiving official electricity bills from the Kurigram-Lalmonirhat Palli Bidyut Samity’s Ulipur zonal office despite the fact that the solar panels provided no power. Repeated complaints to the relevant authorities have gone unanswered, with no maintenance or inspections carried out.  Meanwhile, bills continue to arrive. “We can’t even light a bulb with these panels. We no longer want the solar units. If proper grid electricity is given, we are willing to pay monthly bills,” said Ruhul Amin. Zohur Uddin, 67, said he paid Tk 500 for a 50-watt solar panel, but it failed almost immediately. “It barely lasted a day. Still, we keep receiving bills every month,” he lamented. Lutfor Pramanik, 46, who received a 30-watt panel, said he now owes Tk 2,300 for the period between 2021 and 2025, despite never having received reliable power from the system. Locals alleged that Palli Bidyut staff members now deliver electricity bills by hand each month at the riverbank, but no officials have visited the char to investigate or repair the malfunctioning solar systems. When contacted, Tariqul Islam, Deputy General Manager of the Ulipur zonal office of Kurigram-Lalmonirhat Palli Bidyut Samity, acknowledged the issue.  “We are removing the panels upon request from those who no longer want them. Those who wish to keep them may do so. Had they paid bills on time, the arrears wouldn’t have accumulated. They are still liable to pay as per rule,” he said. Zakir Hossain, Senior General Manager of the Palli Bidyut Samity, said he was unaware of the matter.  “Since you’ve raised it, I will have our Ulipur office look into the situation. If indeed the solar systems are faulty, we will consider waiving the bills based on customer applications,” he said.