United News of Bangladesh

As floodwaters begin to recede across Feni, thousands of displaced residents are returning to their homes only to be met with devastation and despair.  The battle for survival has entered a new phase, marked by waterlogged dwellings, broken furniture, spoiled food and widespread uncertainty. The immediate threat of floodwaters may have passed, but the scars of the deluge are evident across the district.  Many areas remain without electricity, with recovery efforts struggling to keep pace with the damage. At least 484 people from 130 families continue to seek refuge in nine local shelters, while around 9,076 people have already left temporary accommodations to attempt rebuilding their lives in damaged homes. Fulgazi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Faria Islam said power restoration is still pending in several locations.  “Although water has receded, several homes remain uninhabitable. We are working in coordination with power and health departments,” she said. Since 8 July, the rivers Muhuri, Kahuya and Silonia began swelling following continuous rain and upstream water from Tripura.  The resulting floods swept through Fulgazi, Parshuram, Chhagalnaiya and Feni Sadar upazilas. According to the district administration, over 150,000 residents were marooned by the flooding, and more than 1,000 homes were either partially or completely destroyed.  Roads, bridges, agricultural land and educational institutions were severely affected. In Fulgazi Bazar’s Shripur Road area, river erosion swept away at least 15 shops.  Md Abdul Alim, a local trader, lost his only means of income.  ‘When waters rise, our dreams drown’: Feni cries out for sustainable future “The river took away my shop in a single day. I ran my family with that income. Now I stand here, empty-handed, with no idea how to survive,” he said. Residents who returned to their homes are finding conditions unlivable.  Rozina Akhter from Gojaria village said, “The water has gone, but we can’t enter our home. Mud, stench from spoiled food, and filth have made the place unlivable. The children are falling sick. Even in shelters, we are getting very little support.” The Water Development Board (WDB) reported that embankments were breached at 36 points along the Muhuri, Kahuya, and Silonia rivers—19 in Parshuram and 17 in Fulgazi.  Earlier, the board had recorded 20 breaches within four days. Akhtar Hossain, WDB executive engineer in Feni, said geo-bags are being used to contain breaches, but sustainable solutions are required.  “We have been trying to contain the breaches using geo-bags, but sustainable embankments and long-term river dredging plans are urgently needed,” he said. The Department of Agricultural Extension confirmed that 5,564.61 hectares of cropland were affected.  The Fisheries Department recorded losses of Tk 8.12 crore, while the Department of Livestock reported damages amounting to Tk 64.88 lakh.  Final estimates are expected once all floodwaters have fully receded. Md Harun, a poultry and fish farmer from Komua village, said he is facing the same nightmare again.  “Last year, the flood cost me over Tk 20 lakh. This time, chickens died, and fish enclosures were washed away again. Every year the same story—embankments break, the water comes, and we get promises. These disasters have become routine,” he said. Tk 7,340 cr flood control embankment to be built in Feni: Adviser Calls for temporary aid are gradually being replaced by demands for permanent solutions. Former upazila chairman Aminul Rasul Golap said people in Phulgazi are no longer seeking relief. “They want strong embankments. Without proper river dredging, maintenance, and oversight, annual floods will continue to drown us,” he said. Parshuram UNO Ariful Islam said relief efforts are ongoing, but resources remain limited.  “We are listing affected people and planning rehabilitation in phases,” he added. Feni Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam said, “We have allocated Tk 23.5 lakh for relief distribution. An additional Tk 40 lakh has been sought from the Disaster Management Ministry for dry food, cattle feed, and baby food. The army is assisting with relief efforts. The situation is gradually improving, and support for affected families will continue.” In August last year, Feni experienced one of the worst floods in its history.  The disaster claimed 29 lives and affected more than 10 lakh people.  Feni’s low-lying areas disappear under rising waters leaving no land in sight Total damages were estimated at Tk 2,686.20 crore, impacting homes, roads, schools, transport, and businesses across the district.  

For thousands of people who travel the Faridpur-Barishal Highway every day, the road has long been a lifeline, linking communities, supporting local trade and making travel easier across southern Bangladesh. But over the past week, relentless monsoon rainfall has turned a critical 30-kilometre stretch from Faridpur town to the Bhanga intersection into a hazardous, crater-ridden obstacle course. The scene is now one of disruption and distress. Bitumen and carpeting have given way in numerous areas and gaping potholes — some as deep as five inches — have transformed the highway into a patchwork of treacherous puddles and jagged edges. For passengers, transport workers and traders, the once-routine journey has become an ordeal often ending in injury or delays. “Accidents are becoming more frequent. It’s difficult to keep balance, especially on a motorbike,” said a local commuter, navigating cautiously through the rain-drenched road near Bakhunda. In a bid to salvage the situation, the Faridpur Roads and Highways Department (RHD) has initiated emergency repairs. Surma riverbank erosion threatens lifeline in Sunamganj Using bricks and basic materials, teams are working on the worst-hit sections, including Pukhuria, Bhuban Dayar, Danggi Bridge and Talma Mor, to patch over the damage temporarily. Executive Engineer Khalid Saifullah Sardar and his team have been at the forefront of these efforts. Despite continuous rain hampering progress, they remain visible on the ground, overseeing repair operations. “This is only a temporary solution,” Engineer Saifullah told UNB, adding, “Proper repair work can’t begin until the rain stops and land acquisition issues are resolved.” Behind the scenes, a more ambitious plan is waiting in the wings. In late May, the government awarded a formal tender to Arabail Company for a full-scale renovation of the damaged highway. An amount of Tk 49 crore has already been allocated for immediate improvements. Besides, a far-reaching plan to widen the highway into four lanes has been approved, with Tk 500 crore previously sanctioned for land acquisition. But progress remains stalled. “We can’t begin full-scale work until the district administration hands over the acquired land. That’s why there has been no major development in the Faridpur section for a long time,” Saifullah said. Until then, the weight of the monsoon continues to bear down on the road, and on the people who depend on it. At least 10 districts rely on this crucial artery, and the deterioration is not just a matter of inconvenience; it is disrupting livelihoods and mobility. Bangladesh’s Trains: Lifeline for millions, yet stuck by challenges While the RHD has pledged to continue temporary repairs to keep the highway functional, frustration grows among road users. Many are asking why such an important route was left vulnerable in the first place. For now, drivers inch forward, dodging potholes and praying for clear skies and swift action to restore a road that connects more than just places, but also the daily lives of countless citizens.

Although Bangladesh’s constitution promises equal protection under the law, the real experience of many tells a different story as people face multiple barriers that prevent them from accessing the justice system. Aiming to make the judicial services more extensive, accessible and effective for people particularly for marginalised groups, including women, the poor and children, the government has taken a project titled ‘Access to Justice for Women: Strengthening Community Dispute Resolution and Improving Case Management’. It will be implemented by the Law Ministry involving Tk 186.4962 crore. The project will be implemented in Barishal, Dhaka, Cumilla, Narsingdi, Khulna, Rangpur and Moulvibazar districts by March 2027, according to the project document. Of the total amount of money, Tk 180.3082 crore will be provided by the German government as project grant while Tk 6.1880 crore will come from the national exchequer. The main project objectives are to enhance the capacity of justice service providers, especially legal service providers and community-based organisations, and to enhance cooperation and coordination among relevant stakeholders in government, judicial and non-governmental voluntary development institutions. It will also implement necessary legal and procedural reforms related to evidence-based case management and alternative dispute resolution. The activities under the project involves organising seminars, workshops, and stakeholder meetings, conducting study tours, publishing legal aid materials, strengthening access to legal aid services and developing gender-sensitive conflict resolution policies and implementing evidence-based case management systems. According to the project document, the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs is always striving to ensure an efficient and effective justice system. For this reason, the ministry is taking various measures to ensure justice along with legal assistance to the people by formulating necessary laws, policies, rules, strategy papers, circulars, etc. Judicial Service Commission presents 2023 Annual Report to President Shahabuddin To this end, the project has been proposed with the aim of contributing effectively to the protection of the constitutional rights of the citizens of the state, especially the marginalised and helpless people, including women, by playing a role in adopting new reform methods, it said. Despite legal reforms and various initiatives, women, children and marginalised communities in Bangladesh continue to face significant hurdles in accessing justice. Structural barriers, social stigma, financial constraints and lengthy legal procedures often discourage vulnerable groups from seeking justice. For many women, particularly in rural areas, navigating the judicial system remains a daunting task due to limited awareness of legal rights and fear of social backlash. Victims of gender-based violence frequently encounter further victimisation during the legal process. In many cases, police are reluctant to record complaints, while survivors face pressure from families or communities to withdraw cases or settle disputes informally, often at the cost of justice. For children, the situation is equally complex. Although child-friendly justice mechanisms exist in law, in practice, children involved in legal proceedings—whether as victims, witnesses, or accused—are often subjected to trauma due to lack of proper support systems, inadequate legal representation, and exposure to intimidating courtroom environments. Marginalised communities, including ethnic minorities, the poor, and people with disabilities, struggle with additional obstacles such as discrimination, language barriers and lack of access to legal aid. Many cannot afford the high costs of legal counsel or endure the prolonged nature of case resolutions. Besides, case backlogs in courts remain a persistent problem, leading to years of delay in delivering justice. This not only erodes trust in the legal system but also leaves victims without closure or remedy. Legal experts and rights activists have long called for reforms that prioritise gender sensitivity, community-based dispute resolution, and the expansion of legal aid to ensure that justice is not a privilege, but a guaranteed right for all.

As the monsoon set in, the people of Feni were once again devastated by flooding, a recurring tragedy that left behind deep and unhealed scars. As the destruction recurs, one question continues to echo: will a sustainable embankment ever be built? Will the people of Feni ever be spared the horrors of recurring floods? On Saturday, Faruk-e-Azam, Adviser to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, visited the flood-hit areas in Feni. Local residents seized the opportunity to press their demand for durable embankments. In response, the adviser mentioned that a project worth Tk 7,340 crore has been proposed for embankment construction in Feni. Rushing waters from upstream India broke through embankments in the Parshuram and Fulgazi areas, submerging low-lying villages in Chhagalnaiya and Feni Sadar upazilas. As of Friday, embankments in 23 spots have collapsed, flooding 112 villages and affecting around 34,600 people. Thousands in border-adjacent Fulgazi, Parshuram, Chhagalnaiya and parts of Feni Sadar are enduring significant hardship. Roads have gone under water, halting all vehicular movement. Power cuts and lack of mobile network connectivity have further complicated the situation for flood-affected families. Tk 7,340 cr flood control embankment to be built in Feni: Adviser As the floodwaters begin to recede, the extent of the damage is becoming clear. In Parshuram, about 50 homes have collapsed. “Just a year after the last flood, we’re submerged again,” lamented elderly Razia Begum of Uttar Sripur in Fulgazi, as she stood waterlogged in her home. She went on to say, “Everything is ruined. Floods in July and August have become a norm for this region. Sometimes I feel like being born here was a mistake.” Razia is not alone. Each year, residents of northern upazilas like Fulgazi, Parshuram and Chhagalnaiya suffer the same fate. This time, three consecutive days of heavy rainfall combined with upstream water from India have broken 23 embankment points along the Muhuri, Kahua and Silonia rivers. With water engulfing new areas every hour, life in these regions remains paralysed. Ali Azam, a resident of Uttar Sripur in Fulgazi, described the ferocity of the current, saying, “Water is pouring through the breached embankments with strong currents. New areas are flooding by the hour. Just like last year, we are again struggling with power outages and mobile network failures. Regardless of which political party is in power, our fate never seems to change.” Feni flood situation getting better after pause in rainfall

Bangladesh recorded an all-time high of US$30.32 billion in remittance inflows in the 2024–25 fiscal year, reflecting a 26.8% year-on-year jump, due to some government  measures including higher cash incentives, streamlined regulations, and efforts to boost formal transfer channels. According to the Finance Division’s medium-term macroeconomic policy statement, the unprecedented rise in remittance inflows—peaking at US$3.29 billion in March 2025—was largely driven by policy interventions such as an enhanced 2.5 percent cash incentive, simplified regulatory processes, and formal recognition of remitters’ contributions. The government has also taken visible steps to improve the experience of overseas workers, it said. In November 2024, it inaugurated the ‘Probashi Lounge’ at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, offering modern facilities including comfortable waiting areas, subsidized food, prayer rooms, and baby care services. These initiatives aim to foster a sense of respect and privilege for expatriate workers who are a critical part of the national economy. “Finally, following the introduction of the crawling peg exchange rate regime, the gap between the official exchange rate and the curb market rate has significantly narrowed and exchange rate remained stable, resulting in a more remittance inflows over the past several months,” the document claimed. Remittance hits record $30.32 billion in FY2024-25 The Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) and the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment (MoEWOE) played a crucial role in promoting overseas employment for skilled Bangladeshi workers. Progress has already been made through initiatives like Skills For Employment Investment Program (SEIP) and Skills for Industry Competitiveness and Innovation Program( SICIP), while the government continues to focus on creating new employment opportunities and improving labour market conditions. Expatriates sent a record US$30.32 billion in remittances in the just-concluded 2024-25 fiscal year, marking a 26.8 percent year-on-year increase from the US$23.9 billion received in FY2023-24 and it was the  highest annual remittance inflow in the country’s history. In June 2025 alone, the remittance inflow stood at US$2.81 billion, an 11 percent rise compared to US$2.53 billion in June 2024. The highest single-month remittance in FY2024-25 was recorded in March, when inflows surged past the US$3 billion mark, driven by Eid-ul-Fitr-related transfers. This not only marked the peak for the fiscal year but also set a new monthly record for Bangladesh. Banking sector insiders attributed the surge to a growing preference among expatriates for using formal banking channels over informal ones such as hundi.  They believe the positive trend will help ease pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves and support import payments. Jianul Islam, a Bangladeshi expatriate living in middle eastern country, said, “The expatriates are now feeling comparatively comfortable to send their money in the country due to some steps of the interim government.” “The process has been eased and we feel encouraged to send our money to our nearest ones through proper channel,” he told UNB over telephone. He also said that if the process remains easy and the exchange rates remains lucrative there is no reason to send money through illegal channel. Bangladesh received $2.7 billion remittances in 29 days of June But, he said that as the previous nexus of Hundi traders are absent till now after the change of Awami League government, the remitters are sending money through proper channel having no other option. He added, “If remitters feel they are respected and provided better services—especially at airports—they will no doubt send more money through proper channels. The government should maintain this stance.” The inward remittance flow throughout the FY2024–25 showed a steady upward trend, with monthly figures as follows: US$1.91 billion in July, US$2.22 billion in August, US$2.40 billion in September, US$2.39 billion in October, US$2.20 billion in November, US$2.64 billion in December, US$2.19 billion in January, US$2.53 billion in February, US$3.29 billion in March—the highest monthly inflow on record—followed by US$2.75 billion in April, US$2.97 billion in May, and US$2.81 billion in June.  

In the heart of bustling Dhanmondi, where car horns and café music mix in the summer air, a modest food cart stands surrounded by curious office-goers, students and families. Behind it is 17-year-old Arif Hasan, a boy with a dream larger than his cart, to show that youth, with passion and purpose, can turn street corners into stages of success. Once seen as a last resort for survival, street food vending is now emerging as a source of pride and entrepreneurship for Dhaka’s youths. Food Cart Business in Bangladesh: How to Get the Food on Wheels Rolling Every morning, Arif arrives with his cart by 8 AM, setting up gas burners, arranging fresh parathas, kebabs, and steaming cups of tea. By 10, he’s already serving dozens of customers — some regulars, some new — all drawn not just by the flavour, but the story. “I didn’t want to beg for jobs after HSC,” says Arif, wearing a bright apron and a smile, he said, “I wanted to start something of my own. My friends laughed at me at first, but now they help me.” Arif started the cart with just Tk 20,000, which he saved by tutoring and doing part-time delivery jobs. With a little help from a local NGO that supports youth-led enterprises, he bought a second-hand cart and began experimenting with recipes from his grandmother. What sets his cart apart is not just the food — it’s the idea. It has a chalkboard that reads:, Proud to Serve, Proud to Dream'. Social media quickly took notice. His Instagram reels showing street cooking hacks and customer reactions now reach thousands. His cart has become more than a business — it’s a statement. “I come here not just for the food, but for the vibe,” says Samia Rahman, a university student. “Arif is proof that work isn’t shameful — what matters is how you carry it.” Arif wants to expand into three more carts in the next year. His longer-term goal? A food chain owned and operated by youth. “I want to create a space where young people can work with pride. Where a food cart isn’t seen as failure — but as freedom.” The launch of his new cart comes at a time when youth unemployment in Bangladesh remains a pressing issue. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the unemployment rate among 15-24-year-olds stood at over 10% in 2024, with many young people struggling to transition from education to employment. Arif’s initiative is being viewed as a small but significant example of self-reliance and innovation among urban youth. Social media platforms have also amplified his story, with his food cart gaining viral popularity due to videos showcasing his cooking process and customer engagement. Local NGO official Munira Parveen, who helped connect Arif with initial training, said, “This is not just about selling food. This is about showing how young people can create their own path in the informal sector with dignity and determination.” Arif also pointed out challenges such as the lack of legal support for street vendors, absence of designated vending zones, and occasional harassment. “I just want to work in peace. I’m not stealing, I’m serving,” he said. Urban analysts suggest that such youth-led micro-enterprises deserve formal recognition and policy-level support to ensure sustainability. But food cart entrepreneurs in Dhaka struggle with legal, social and environmental barriers. Despite the growing popularity of street food in Dhaka, hundreds of food cart entrepreneurs, particularly youth, continue to face major challenges in running their businesses due to legal uncertainty, lack of infrastructure and social stigma. In recent years, food carts have become a visible part of Dhaka’s urban economy, offering affordable meals to office workers, students, and commuters. Most of these carts,  however,  operate without official permission, making them vulnerable to eviction, harassment and extortion. “There is no fixed place for us. One day we’re here, the next day the police ask us to leave,” said Mahmudul Hasan, a 19-year-old food cart owner operating near Dhanmondi. “Sometimes we have to pay just to stay on the footpath.” According to vendors and rights groups, there is no clear licensing system or legal framework in place under Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) or Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) for mobile food carts. As a result, vendors are often caught in a grey area of enforcement, facing arbitrary actions from local authorities. Apart from legal issues, food cart businesses also struggle with environmental and logistical barriers. Without access to running water, electricity, or hygienic waste disposal, maintaining food safety becomes a daily challenge. The situation worsens during the summer and monsoon seasons, when high temperatures and sudden downpours disrupt operations and reduce customer turnout. “We cook on gas stoves without shade. In this heat, it becomes unbearable,” said Mahbub Alam, another vendor in Karwan Bazar. “But if we don’t come, we don’t eat.” Youth-led food carts, in particular, face added social pressure. Despite showcasing entrepreneurship and self-reliance, many young vendors report being ridiculed by peers and relatives. “People think I’ve failed in life because I sell food on the street,” Arif added. “But this is my way of being independent.” Economists and urban policy analysts argue that food carts serve an important role in employment generation and should be integrated into the city’s formal economy. “Street food vending is part of the informal economy that fills a crucial service gap,” said urban researcher Dr. Rafiq Islam. “It’s time for city authorities to designate vending zones, provide basic services, and introduce affordable licensing mechanisms.” At present, there are no publicly available statistics on the exact number of food carts operating in Dhaka, but estimates suggest several thousand across key commercial hubs. Many operate in areas like Gulistan, Farmgate, Mirpur, and Motijheel — often shifting locations to avoid fines. Without policy reform, stakeholders fear that young entrepreneurs in this sector will continue to operate in precarity, unable to scale their businesses or contribute more fully to the urban economy. Urban flavors on wheels: food cart zone brings street food into the spotlight : As urban centers evolve, food cart zones are emerging as inclusive, low-cost, and high-impact solutions for urban employment, tourism, and food culture—bringing city streets alive with flavor and community spirit. Gulistan Zero Point, Dhanmondi Lake Area (near Rabindra Sorobor),Hatirjheel (near Police Plaza),Mirpur-1 Stadium vicinityU, ttara Sector 7 Park area Each zone is equipped with uniform mobile carts, sanitation facilities, proper drainage, waste disposal bins, customer seating, and nighttime lighting. The vendors have received basic training on hygiene, customer service, and business management from Dhaka City Corporation in partnership with local NGOs and food safety departments. 22-year-old Imran Hossain, a former private university student who now runs a mobile momo and iced tea cart in Dhanmondi, shared with a smile, "I didn’t want a desk job. This cart is my startup. I serve quality food, use Instagram for marketing, and dream of opening my own restaurant one day." Nusrat Jahan, 25, who operates a juice and salad cart near Hatirjheel, said, "People used to think this work was only for the poor. But now, customers respect us. I wear my apron with pride. I’m my own boss." These youth-led carts are not just limited to traditional foods. Many offer fusion menus—think beef shingara tacos, nutrient-packed smoothies, and Japanese-style egg sandwiches—catering to health-conscious and trendy urban customers. Urban development experts say this movement reflects a positive cultural shift in how society views informal work and self-employment. Dr Tasnim Rahman, an urban sociologist, said, "The youth entering the street food business reflects both the spirit of innovation and the urgency of dignified livelihoods. With the right support, these small carts could fuel a much larger ecosystem of local enterprise."  

In Char Gorokmondol, a remote village in Phulbari upazila of Kurigram district, the once-distant rumble of the Dharla River has grown into a deafening roar and with it destruction follows. Over the past several days, the river’s relentless erosion has swallowed more than 50 homes and devoured hundreds of bighas of fertile land. Families are now left broken and displaced, while around 500 more teeter on the brink of a similar fate. Panic grips Shariatpur residents as erosion resumes near Padma Bridge “What can I say, brother? This is the fifth time my home has gone into the river. I have nothing left,” said Ala Boksh, a 65-year-old shopkeeper. For the past four years, Ala and his wife have been living in makeshift shelters on others’ land, surviving on meager earnings from a small roadside shop in Anandabazar that sells thread and rope. But even that fragile grip on survival is now slipping, as the river edges closer -- just meters from his current dwelling. He has begun shifting his belongings to his brother-in-law’s property. But with no money, the effort has stalled. “It’s like starting from nothing again — and again,” he says, his eyes moist with despair. While erosion is not new to the region, its intensity this year is alarming. The advancing river now threatens more than 500 families, casting a long shadow over their homes and dreams. Among those at risk is a newly constructed government structure,  the Mujib Kella, built at a cost of over Tk 2 crore to serve as a disaster shelter. Surma riverbank erosion threatens lifeline in Sunamganj Zahurul Islam, 35, and his wife Mahamuda Begum stand at their doorstep, watching the river creep closer. “We’re counting the days,” said Mahmuda,  adding, “It could be any moment now.” Others in the village share the same fear and grief. Local youth Kamal Hossain and Abdul Quddus recount the names of those already displaced this year --  Zobed Ali, Monser Ali, Azibor Rahman, and Azgor Ali -- families who lost everything in the blink of an eye. “It’s not just land. It’s memories, livelihoods, roots -- all gone in a blink,” said Nur Alam.  

Despite spending thousands of crores over more than a decade and launching multiple large-scale drainage projects, Chattogram continues to suffer from crippling waterlogging during monsoon. The delays in project implementation, uncoordinated efforts, lack of urban planning and public indifference have turned the problem into an enduring nightmare for city residents. In 2017, four major projects aimed at eradicating waterlogging in the port city were jointly undertaken by the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA), Chattogram City Corporation (CCC), and the Water Development Board. These projects, with a combined estimated cost of nearly Tk 14,000 crore, were scheduled for completion by 2022. But, work progress now ranges between 60 and 80 percent. The recent spells of continuous rain have once again left low-lying areas of the city submerged. While some areas saw faster water drainage due to canal renovation works under the waterlogging mitigation project, many neighbourhoods, including Chawkbazar, Mehedibagh, Kapasgola, Katalganj, Sholokbahar and Agrabad still experienced severe inundation, causing immense suffering for hundreds of thousands of residents. Despite warnings of possible landslides in the hilly areas of the city due to the heavy rains, no visible steps have been taken to relocate residents from risky zones. According to Chattogram City Corporation sources, excavation work has been completed on 21 out of 36 canals. Besides, regulator gates and pump houses have been constructed at the mouths of four canals out of the 12 planned under the project. Project engineer and Chief Engineer of CDA, Kazi Hasan Bin Shams, said that waterlogging in the city has comparatively reduced as work progresses. He, however, blamed non-degradable waste for blocking the drainage channels and creating obstructions. Urban planner and engineer Delwar Majumder stressed the need for holding accountable the private and institutional owners of vulnerable hills, as failure to do so would keep the risk of landslides and casualties alive. City residents, however, remain critical of the situation. Choked canals, plastic peril: Dhaka’s struggle with prolonged waterlogging They blame poor urban management and public irresponsibility for the unending misery. Despite some improvements, they said, the city remains under constant threat of flooding during peak monsoon, a hardship they have endured for years. Over the last 14 fiscal years, CCC has spent Tk 324 crore under three successive mayors to tackle the problem. The funds went into canal excavation, silt removal from drains, construction of retaining walls and procurement of machinery and trucks. On average, Tk 23 crore has been spent annually. Yet experts argue that the money was not spent in a well-planned manner. Instead, routine work was done merely to show effort and the funds seem to have washed away—quite literally—without resolving the core issues. They also argue that given the scale of the problem, the amount spent was not adequate. In April last year, before the monsoon, many parts of the city were submerged twice in heavy rain. Again in June, large areas including the key Agrabad Access Road went underwater for four days, with boats seen plying the streets. Most recently, despite the city being inundated again, faster water drainage spared residents from prolonged waterlogging. According to sources, 22 of Chattogram’s 41 wards experience waterlogging during heavy rain and tidal surges, affecting over 3.1 million of the city’s 6 million residents. The worst-affected wards include Chandgaon, East Sholoshohor, Sholokbahar, Chawkbazar, West Bakalia, East Bakalia, South Bakalia, North Agrabad, South Agrabad, Pathantuli, Boxirhat, Gosaildanga, and North Middle Halishahar — home to over 1.8 million people. Other affected wards include Panchlaish, Mohora, West Sholoshohor, North Kattoli, Rampur, North Halishahar, Patharghata, South Middle Halishahar, and South Halishahar, with a combined population of over 1.3 million. An analysis of CCC’s budget documents and annual reports reveals that former mayor A B M Mohiuddin Chowdhury spent Tk 66.11 crore on waterlogging measures between FY2003-04 and FY2008-09. His successor, Mohammad Manjur Alam, spent Tk 205.52 crore during his tenure. Mayor A J M Nasir Uddin, elected in 2015, spent Tk 52.53 crore in two years. Waterlogging: Two days of torrential rain cripples life in Narayanganj Despite Mayor Nasir’s pre-election pledge that waterlogging was a solvable issue, he couldn’t deliver on his promise. Urban planners blame a lack of coordination among the various agencies involved. Chattogram has 118 canals spanning a total of 182.25 kilometres, along with 710 kilometres of concrete drains and 55 kilometres of unpaved ones. CCC receives far less than what is needed in terms of budget, with annual development implementation fluctuating between 17 and 35 percent. Often, less important projects are undertaken for political reasons, while silt removal alone is insufficient to fix the problem. A coordinated effort is urgently required, experts said. During Mayor Manjur Alam’s tenure, CCC spent Tk 82.82 crore on drain and retaining wall construction, and Tk 21.97 crore on silt removal. Planners argue that much of this work was for show, including the purchase of equipment, and that planned investment would have brought better outcomes. Experts insist that implementing the 1995 ‘Chittagong Storm Water Drainage and Flood Control Masterplan’ is the only viable long-term solution. The plan clearly outlines how to address the issue, and CCC has been assigned responsibility for its implementation. Root Causes of Waterlogging: Hill Cutting: Soil and sand from illegal hill cutting are filling drains. Encroachment: Occupation of drains and canals for illegal construction. Waste Dumping: Use of canals as garbage bins by residents. Tidal Influence: Canal mouths have risen, preventing proper outflow into the Karnaphuli River during high tides. Unplanned urbanisation, landfilling of low-lying areas and reservoirs, and illegal hill cutting have further exacerbated the problem. The pipelines of service agencies running through drains block water flow. Being a city adjacent to sea and river, tidal surges often flood the city during high tides, especially when coinciding with rainfall. Possible Solutions: Fresh research and updated planning. Regular dredging of the Karnaphuli River and demolition of illegal riverside structures. Deepening and widening of roadside drains and regular canal excavation. Strict prohibition on filling waterbodies and ponds. Improved waste management to prevent garbage from entering canals. Identification and removal of drainage obstacles. Construction of new canals and straightening of existing ones. Installation of silt traps to block hill sediments. Construction of tidal gates in low-lying areas near the river and sea. Relocation of pipelines inside canals and correction of technical errors in drain construction. Public awareness campaigns to prevent canal pollution. Empowering and making local ward offices accountable for drainage issues. Experts insist there is no alternative to fully implementing the Drainage Masterplan. As considerable time has passed since its formulation, it now requires review and updates. Monsoon Misery Looms: Dhaka braces for worsening waterlogging crisis All relevant agencies including CDA, the Port Authority, WASA, and the Water Development Board must act in coordination under the leadership of CCC. With the current budget and capacity, CCC alone cannot bear the burden of solving this complex problem. Interim Government’s Silver Lining: Hope emerged earlier this year when the interim government took the issue seriously. On January 19, four advisers -- Syeda Rizwana Hasan (Environment and Water Resources), Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan (Road Transport and Bridges), Faruk-e-Azam (Disaster Management), and Adilur Rahman Khan (Housing and Public Works)-- visited the port city to assess the situation. After visiting key canals and drains, they launched eight short-term initiatives. As a result, some areas saw improvement in drainage and recent heavy rains caused comparatively less flooding in those places. CCC Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, however, said a complete solution across the city will require at least another year to one and a half years.

Though he has categorically ruled out the possibility of an electoral alliance with their party’s long-time ally Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin indicates that the door remains open for talks with the Nationalist Citizens’ Party (NCP) until the election schedule is announced. In an interview with UNB, Salahuddin expressed confidence that the interim government will hold the next national election by mid-February next year as he thinks various political parties are raising demands around the polls as part of their broader political strategies. He also urged the National Consensus Commission to conclude discussions on reform proposals within a reasonable timeframe, warning against unnecessary delays that could hinder the election process. “I don’t see any possibility of an electoral alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami. We had an alliance with them in the past as part of our political strategy, but we don’t feel the need to partner with Jamaat this time,” Salahuddin said. He said the BNP is focused on forming an electoral alliance and a national government with those who joined their simultaneous movement and democratic struggle. “Right now, we’re not considering anything beyond that.” When asked about a possible alliance with NCP, Salahuddin replied, “Discussions on political alliances will continue until the election schedule is announced. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.” He said all democratic parties will adopt different strategies ahead of the election. “So, let’s wait and see what strategy BNP ultimately chooses for the election and alliances.” He voiced frustration over the lengthy discussions by the National Consensus Commission on reform issues. “I think the discussion is being unnecessarily prolonged. In my opinion, it should have been concluded within a reasonable timeframe.” The BNP leader said there seem to be some shortcomings in how the meetings are conducted by the Consensus Commission, which is causing the whole process to become a time-consuming one. “I hope that the discussion would not continue for much longer. We should move towards a summary and conclusion," he said. Fakhrul welcomes Yunus’ directive, hopes for prompt election preparations by EC Salahuddin said there is significant development that the caretaker government system has almost been restored—only the Supreme Court’s review is pending. “We hope the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court will give a positive verdict on the review petition.” He said the people of Bangladesh agree that national elections should be held under a neutral caretaker government. “But, there is still debate over its structure or whether the immediate past Chief Justice should remain the first option for the Chief Adviser of the caretaker government.” The BNP leader said discussions on alternatives are still ongoing. “Our party and others will give our proposals, as will the Reform Commission in this regard. If no better option is agreed upon, the current structure will remain.” Salahuddin strongly opposed the idea of introducing a Proportional Representation (PR) system in the upcoming election, saying Bangladesh’s current political, social and electoral culture is not suitable for such a system. He argued that the PR system could disconnect voters from their direct representatives, discourage voter participation, and create instability by resulting in fragmented parliaments with no clear majority. The BNP leader emphasised that Bangladesh needs a functioning political structure based on direct elections where constituents can choose their own representatives. Salahuddin said Bangladesh is not ready for the Proportional Representation (PR) voting system. “It has never been practised here, and people are not familiar with it.” He explained that voters in Bangladesh prefer to vote for a person they know from their own area, not just for a political party. “In PR, even if a party gets more votes in a region, someone from another area may be selected, which does not reflect the people’s choice. This could discourage voters and weaken democracy.” Democracy hardly practised in Bangladesh: Fakhrul He also said that in other countries where PR works, their local governments are strong, but this is not applicable in Bangladesh. “Here, MPs are directly involved in development projects, so this system may not work well.” Another problem, he mentioned that independent candidates will be left out in PR. “Even if someone is very popular, they can’t get elected unless they belong to a party. That’s unfair and undemocratic.” He believes that small parties want PR because it would help them get more seats even with fewer votes. “But this would lead to unstable coalition governments, and the country may not have strong leadership.” Salahuddin, who is representing the BNP in discussions with the Consensus Commission, said their party will not accept the PR system election under any circumstances. He said some political parties are making different demands — some want reforms, others say no election without justice or proportional representation (PR). “They are making these remarks with various purposes. But we are confident the election will be held by February next year as per the Constitution. Everyone has the right to speak, but their statements may have political motives.” “We respect new political parties and wish them well. But real political weight comes from public support. Some smaller parties speak louder than larger ones, though they represent very few people. In politics, public perception matters,” the BNP leader said. Even within alliance partners of BNP, he said different views may arise. “That could be part of their bargaining strategy, like seat sharing.” Fakhrul urges BNP leaders, activists to begin election preparations When asked about the future of the Awami League, Salahuddin said, “My view is that the Awami League is no longer a political party. They lost their political ideals and character long ago. They have transformed themselves into a mafia-like organisation — an undemocratic, fascist force. Throughout their history, from before 1975 until now, they have never practised democracy. Democracy is simply not in their DNA.”

The picturesque district of Bandarban, where clouds, hills, rivers and waterfalls meet, has long been a popular destination for tourists from across Bangladesh.  But a growing security concern stemming from the emergence of a new armed group, the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF), has led to repeated travel bans over recent years, severely impacting the local tourism industry. Bandarban, one of the three hill districts in the country, is bordered by Cox’s Bazar to the southwest, Chattogram to the northwest, Rangamati to the north and Myanmar to the east. A Timeline of Restrictions Just as the district was recovering from the economic blows of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020–21, KNF’s increasing activity prompted the local administration to impose an indefinite travel ban on Ruma and Rowangchhari upazilas from October 18, 2022. Later, Thanchi and Alikadam upazilas also faced similar restrictions.  The administration then alternated between lifting and reimposing bans across different upazilas, with extensions issued several times. On February 20, 2023, travel restrictions in Ruma, Rowangchhari and Thanchi were briefly lifted, only to be reinstated on March 16 of the same year.  A fresh ban on travel to Bandarban was imposed on 8 October 2024.  Although the restriction was lifted in four of the district's seven upazilas on 6 November, Ruma, Rowangchhari and Thanchi remained off-limits. As of February 11 this year, the ban on Devtakhum in Rowangchhari has been lifted, allowing tourist access. From June 6, limited travel has been permitted up to Boga Lake in Ruma, and to Tumatungi and Thanchi’s Tindu. Tourism restrictions lifted in parts of Bandarban nearly after a year But, travel outside these specified areas remains prohibited. KNF's Rise The KNF emerged in Ruma upazila, founded by local resident and former Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Arts student, Nathan Bawm, according to law enforcement agencies. In 2012, Nathan initially formed the Kuki-Chin Development Organisation (KNDO), which later evolved into the Kuki-Chin National Front in 2018—though the group’s logo lists 2008 as its founding year. The group initially protested against the Parbatya Chattagram Regional Council and against groups such as the Jana Samhati Samiti (JSS), and the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF).  KNF also vocalised concerns about discrimination faced by underrepresented ethnic communities like the Bawm, Lushai, Pangkhua, Khumi and Khiang at the hands of the dominant Chakma and Marma populations. Soon after, the group went underground and launched an armed movement against the state.  KNF claims on its Facebook page to represent six ethnic groups across Rangamati and Bandarban: the Bawm, Pangkhua, Lushai, Khumi, Khiang and Mro. It demands a separate state comprising nine upazilas from these two districts—five in Bandarban (Rowangchhari, Ruma, Thanchi, Lama and Alikadam) and four in Rangamati (Baghaichhari, Barkal, Juraichhari, and Bilaichhari).  The group even uploaded a map of the proposed state online. KNF alleges that over a hundred of its military wing members received guerrilla training in Myanmar’s Kachin province around 2021.  A team returned to Bangladesh after completing training and went into hiding, reportedly with around 15–20 members. The group has since grown in size. Initially, KNF focused its hostility on the regional council, JSS and the Chakma community, accusing them of maintaining dominance in the hills.  Tourism restrictions lifted in 4 Bandarban upazilas In one such act, they killed two Jum farmers in a Tripura village under Bilaichhari upazila in Rangamati. Although the group initially called for statehood, it has since shifted towards demanding autonomy, though its anti-Chakma sentiment and opposition to the JSS and regional council remain unchanged. Escalating Violence Declaring itself an armed group via its Facebook page, the KNF has been accused of extortion, kidnapping and murder, destabilising the region. Authorities allege that the militant outfit Jama’atul Ansar Fil Hindal Sharqiya set up training camps in remote KNF-controlled areas in the hills.  This intelligence led to a joint law enforcement operation starting on October 3, 2022. A travel ban followed on October 17. Though there were talks of peace negotiations with the government, KNF grabbed headlines again in 2024 by staging armed robberies at three bank branches within 17 hours in two upazilas. Since its inception, KNF has reportedly been involved in at least nine major terrorist incidents.  One such event was a clash in 2023 with another armed group, the UPDF (Democratic), leaving eight dead in Khamtangpara, Rowangchhari, and one in Mualpipara, Ruma. Other attacks include: May 8, 2023: Three members of the Bawm community, including an Awami League leader, were killed in Paingkhyongpara, Rowangchhari. March 22, 2023: Village head Thongchul Bom was shot dead in Ramtharpara, Rowangchhari. June 21, 2022: Three men were killed in Sajampara, Barathali Union, Bilaichhari. As the security forces launched their crackdown, many KNF members reportedly fled across the border into India’s Mizoram, leaving Bawm civilians vulnerable.  KNF took advantage of the situation to recruit more local youths, according to multiple sources. In 2023, two KNF members and three members of the rival Mog Party were killed in separate incidents.  Travel ban lifted from Bandarban's Ruma and Thanchi On March 12 that year, a KNF ambush killed Master Warrant Officer Nazim Uddin of the Bangladesh Army and injured two other soldiers. A day earlier, on March 11, 12 construction workers were abducted from Thanchi. One was shot, while the others were held hostage. On April 3 and 4 2024, KNF looted three banks in Ruma and Thanchi, prompting a renewed military crackdown from April 6. According to police, over 28 cases have been filed against KNF—18 in Ruma, six in Thanchi, three in Rowangchhari, and one in the district headquarters.  So far, 19 KNF members have been killed in gunfights—11 in Ruma, five in Rowangchhari, two in the district town, and one in Thanchi.  Security forces have recovered 26 firearms in ongoing operations. Years of Losses for Tourism According to the Bandarban Hotel-Motel Owners’ Association, there are over 150 hotels, motels, resorts, and cottages in the district, including 74 in the town centre.  The prolonged travel bans have caused substantial losses to those dependent on tourism. “Our economic losses have been severe due to COVID-19 and the activities of internal groups, particularly KNF. It will take years for us to recover,” said Sirajul Islam, President of the Bandarban Hotel Owners’ Association, speaking to UNB. “However, due to the prolonged closure, many tourists visited during the recent Eid-ul-Adha holidays,” he added, inviting travellers to return to Bandarban, assuring there is currently no KNF-related threat. Present Scenario On June 2 this year, police raided a textile factory—Well Composite Knit—in Chattogram and arrested Managing Director Tarikul Islam and three others for allegedly supplying fabric for KNF uniforms. Prior to that, authorities had seized 20,300 pieces of KNF uniforms from Ringvo Apparels in Noyahat on May 17 and another 11,785 from a nearby godown the following day. On May 28, an additional 15,000 uniforms were recovered from Noor Fashion factory in Pahartali. Law enforcement has so far seized more than 47,000 KNF uniforms.  In the past month alone, 1,979 suspected KNF members have been arrested, bringing the total number of detainees to over 14,000. These figures were disclosed during a special briefing at Army Headquarters on 26 May. When asked about the current travel restrictions, Bandarban Deputy Commissioner Shamim Ara Rini said, “There is no travel ban on any of the tourist destinations currently open to the public. These areas are completely safe for tourists.”