United News of Bangladesh

In Feni’s low-lying Fulgazi upazila, relentless floodwaters have submerged all 85 villages, turning the entire area into a vast expanse of water. The swollen Muhuri, Silonia and Kahua rivers have breached eight embankments at locations such as Derpara, Uttar Sripur and Daulatpur, unleashing fierce currents that swept away roofs, fences and lives. Among the ruins, some of the poorest villagers have fled with their cattle, poultry and children to shelter in whatever high places they could find. Families cram together in tiny rooms on the upper floors of school buildings and marketplaces -- survivors of a disaster they never caused. In a poignant reflection of the unfolding crisis, 75-year-old Abul Kashem from Uttar Sripur, middle-aged Motaleb, and 32-year-old Kawser Sultana each represent a generation grappling with despair. More than a hundred families have taken refuge on higher ground at the premises of Azmeri Begum Girls’ High School located at Notun Munshirhat. Incessant rainfall washes away crops and fish farms in Bhola, causes waterlogging Countless others, mostly the landless and marginalised, have crowded into emergency shelters across the sub-district, including Fulgazi Pilot High School, the girls’ high school, and local madrasas. For Kawser Sultana, the floodwaters took everything, except her young son. “The flood of ’24 has taken our home and all that we had to live on,” she said, her voice heavy with resignation. Meanwhile, Motaleb, holding back tears with a trembling voice and a fist clenching the folds of his lungi, recounted his midnight escape. “I left at 12. I’ve no medicine for my wife, no food. My children cry all night. We’re under a roof—but is that a home?”

A four-kilometre stretch of the Rangpur-Dhaka Highway, passing through the Mithapukur upazila, has turned into a deadly zone, claiming at least seven lives in the past month alone. This crucial portion of the highway, featuring three major intersections, has long lacked basic traffic signals or safe pedestrian crossings, resulting in frequent accidents and casualties. Despite being developed under the South Asian Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) project, this segment of the highway suffers from poor planning and oversight, officials concerned said, wishing anonymity. The absence of proper infrastructure and road safety measures has led to a sharp rise in accidents. The most hazardous points along the stretch are the Gorer Matha intersection, Bairati Road junction near the local fire service station and the bustling marketplace at Shathibari, one of the largest haats in the northern region. Located just one kilometre from the Mithapukur Upazila Parishad and police station, Gorer Matha has emerged as a perilous four-way intersection. Roads from Dinajpur-Phulbari's coal mine area and the Balarhat region converge here with the main Rangpur-Dhaka highway. Despite the high volume of traffic and strategic importance, no flyover or underpass has been constructed. The lack of traffic signals further aggravates the danger. Long-haul drivers have no indication that they are approaching a major intersection, leading to regular accidents -- some fatal. A regional road connecting Imadpur and Milonpur unions was linked to the Rangpur-Dhaka highway about two years ago near the Shathibari fire service station. A site inspection revealed the absence of any overpass. As a result, vehicles are forced to divert approximately 1.5 kilometres to access Milonpur Road. Traffic movement on Kushtia-Rajbari regional highway halted for 2 hrs Besides, a concrete wall in the middle of the highway divides the lanes, yet many drivers flout traffic rules and attempt risky crossings. This has led to multiple accidents, some of which have left victims severely injured or even dead. The traditional Shathibari haat, a major commercial hub in Mithapukur, has been bisected by the newly built highway. The concrete wall dividing the market not only hampers local businesses but also diminishes the aesthetic appeal of the area. Despite the area's significance—housing banks, insurance offices, government buildings, shops and markets—no pedestrian bridge or underpass exists. Hundreds of people cross the highway every day at this point, taking serious risks.  Locals said at least seven pedestrians have died in the past month alone due to accidents in this area. Shathibari traders Sheikh Sadi, Lalon and Raihan Pradhan have all expressed frustration.  "Millions have been spent on road construction, yet there is no safe crossing. People are forced to climb over the concrete dividers to get across," said Sheikh Sadi. An underpass was built in front of Shathibari School, but locals say it is largely ineffective due to its inconvenient location. Nobody uses it and it is practically abandoned, they added. Residents are demanding immediate construction of either pedestrian overpasses or properly placed underpasses to ensure safety and safeguard livelihoods. Similar concerns have been echoed by people in Gorer Matha and Bairati Road areas, all stressing the need for a more thoughtful and safe transportation plan. Manikganj highway crash leaves one dead  

Once a ‘rising star’ in global trade, Bangladesh now faces uncertainty as President Donald Trump’s radical restructuring of US trade policy threatens Dhaka’s long-standing ‘win-win’ relationship with Washington. Economists and business leaders believe that Bangladesh may lose its once cherished ‘win-win’ position in the US market following the latest announcement regarding tariffs to be imposed on Bangladeshi goods by Trump. In April, the US announced a 37% trade tariff on Bangladeshi goods, before placing a 90-day pause on imposing them to allow for negotiations to take place that runs out on Wednesday (July 9). On Monday, ahead of that deadline, Trump announced a new rate for Bangladeshi that was just a 2% reduction on his original announcement – 35%, to be effective from August 1. But experts say the damage may have already been done. The burden of this new reality is expected to fall mainly on Bangladesh’s garments sector, where key competitor Vietnam have had their tariff slashed from 46% to just 20%. In order to secure that reduction, it dropped all tariffs on goods imported from the US (zero duties). Although Bangladesh (and other countries) was granted a 90-day window for negotiations after the April announcement, no significant progress was made, say analysts. Dr Mahfuz Kabir, Research Director at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS), said, “We assumed we were in a win-win position, but that opportunity has now slipped away. It does not appear that Bangladesh engaged in any effective dialogue with the US during this time. Although the deadline is August, Bangladesh must act within a week to salvage the situation.” Vietnam has already secured substantial tariff reductions. If India and Pakistan succeed in extracting concessions through bilateral talks while Bangladesh delays key decisions, its position in the US market could face serious threats, warned Dr Kabir. Bangladesh holds 2nd spot in apparel export as Vietnam gains ground Trump posted his letter to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, and 13 other world leaders, on his social media platform Truth Social on Monday (Tuesday morning in Bangladesh), explaining the rationale behind his decision in almost identical letters that only had the names of the countries, leaders and tariff rates to be applied.   He cited each country’s “tariff and non-tariff barriers” and a persistent “long-term trade imbalance” as reasons for the tariff. From August 1, 2025, all categories of Bangladeshi products will be subject to the 35% tariff, in addition to existing sector-specific duties. To prevent circumvention via transshipment, the new tariff will also apply to goods rerouted through third countries. Trump stated that the 35% rate is “much less than the trade imbalance Bangladesh has with the US.”  If Bangladesh retaliates by increasing tariffs, the US will respond by raising duties above the 35% rate, he warned. The move, he said, is aimed at removing trade barriers in dealings with Bangladesh (and other countries). Many in the business community believe there is too little time left to renegotiate the tariffs bilaterally. They also question the quality of Bangladesh’s proposals during the negotiation window. Ashraf Ahmed, Director of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), said, “The offers made regarding LPG, soybean and cotton imports were not attractive enough for the US. Major American apparel companies have already stockpiled garments in advance, which will likely reduce new orders. There is very little time left to reverse this trend.” Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, however, continues to be optimistic, saying that “there is still some hope” the tariff could still be reduced through ongoing discussions. Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Tuesday, he confirmed that the Commerce Secretary was departing for Washington to join the Bangladesh delegation already present there. “Talks with the US Trade Representative (USTR) took place on Sunday, with a follow-up session scheduled for tomorrow. One-to-one negotiations may still result in tariff reductions,” said Dr Salehuddin. According to data from the US Department of Commerce, Bangladesh, in 2024, exported a total of $8.37 billion in goods to the US, with the lion’s share coming from apparels, which amounted to $7.06 billion. Stakeholders fear that the garment sector will be hit hardest by the new tariff regime. Bangladesh’s PMI drops by 5.8 points, signals slower economic expansion Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, Executive President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), said, “Tomorrow’s meeting is crucial. If it goes well, there is a strong possibility of lowering the tariffs.” Ehsan also noted that although India currently faces a 27% tariff, Trump may impose an additional 10% on BRICS nations. “If the US reaches a tariff agreement with China, it could spell trouble for Bangladesh. But if high tariffs on China and India remain in place—especially on China—Bangladesh might still find opportunities to benefit from trade,” he said. When asked on Monday whether the US would keep the door open for further dialogue, Trump did not offer a definitive answer but hinted that negotiations may not be completely off the table. The letters do mention: “If you wish to open your heretofore closed Trading Markets to the United States, and eliminate your Tariff and Non Tariff, Policies and Trade Barriers, we will, perhaps, consider an adjustment to this letter.” As such, most experts are of the view that the US side may be amenable to further changes up until the last minute – with August 1 being the next deadline. If they deem it worthwhile under Trump’s “America First” policy. Economists and business leaders agree that Bangladesh must make its maximum effort in the limited time remaining to mitigate the potential damage from the US’s new tariff policy.

In the Haor region of Sunamganj, an age-old proverb says, 'Borsai nao, shuknai pao', meaning boats in the rains, walk in the dry. But this year, with river levels alarmingly low, the saying seems to have lost its relevance, taking a toll on the trade of wooden boats. The traditional boat market at Akhtapara in Dargapasha union under Shantiganj upazila has seen an unexpected slump this monsoon. Water levels across the haor remain unseasonably low, leaving traders and buyers in a state of uncertainty. Held every Friday for nearly four decades, the Akhtapara boat market has long served as a vital hub for the sale of boats used in transport, fishing, agriculture, and daily life across the wetland belt. Boats such as Bajra, Hilla, Patami, and Barki usually draw significant demand. But this year, canals, rivers and wetlands are drying up even in peak monsoon, reducing the need for boats. During a recent visit, around 300 to 400 boats were on display, yet very few buyers were seen. Traders, facing rising costs and falling demand, expressed concern about their livelihoods. The price of raw materials, particularly wood, has increased by nearly 30 percent from previous years. Water levels of Jamuna rising in Sirajganj, but no threat of flooding yet Constructing a standard long boat, once priced at Tk 9,000, now costs around Tk 15,000. A Barki boat currently sells for Tk 20,000 to Tk 22,000, Patami boats range between Tk 13,000 and Tk 15,000, and Hilla boats cost between Tk 5,000 and Tk 7,000. Even with the higher prices, traders said profits have fallen sharply due to slow sales. “During peak seasons, we used to sell around 1,200 boats per week. Now, it's down to just 400,” said a trader. “Currently, we’re only managing to sell 50 to 60 boats per week. It’s a tough season," he said. Bashir Mia, another trader from Ajmiriganj, noted a similar drop in paddle sales. “I used to sell 1,000 to 1,200 paddles per market day; now it's barely 200 to 300. Six-foot paddles that used to sell for Tk 400 to 450 are now priced at Tk 600 to 650,” he said. The market slowdown has had a ripple effect on hundreds of people—boat makers, timber suppliers, paddle sellers, transport workers, and leaseholders. Some have taken out loans from banks or NGOs to fund production but are now facing serious financial strain. Jewell Mia, a boat trader from Ronshi village, said, “Due to low water levels, I made only 70 boats this season compared to 150 to 200 in previous years. So far, I’ve sold only 40 boats. With poor sales and outstanding bank loans, we are facing losses.” Rising river water levels trigger flooding in Kurigram, submerging fields and homes Azman Ali of Barkapan village said, “Boats are essential for farming, fishing, and cutting grass. But without water, none of these activities are taking place, so we’re not buying boats. The prices are high too, which is making it worse.” Market leaseholders Murad Chowdhury and Samsuddin Sunu shared their concerns. “We usually need five consecutive Fridays of good sales to turn a profit. This year, only one Friday saw moderate business; the rest have been disappointing. If water levels rise, sales will pick up again," he said. Shantiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sukanta Saha said the Akhtapara boat market is part of the region’s heritage. Water levels of all major rivers currently below danger level: FFWC Authorities are working on improving facilities at the site with solar lighting and CCTV coverage. He added that more rains are expected soon, which could help improve the water levels and bring relief to traders.

Haileybury Bhaluka, Bangladesh's first premier international boarding school, is making waves in the country's education landscape. Affiliated with the globally renowned Haileybury College UK, the school offers a high-quality British education for boys and girls aged 11 to 18, aiming to cultivate critical thinkers and prepare students for top universities worldwide. In a recent visit to the campus, the correspondent observed the finest campus, well and rich collection of necessary books in the library, well-equipped dining hall, boarding room, playground, indoor games facilities and mosque for prayer for students, which are world class qualities. Talking with UNB, Masum Uddin, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the school said that Bangladeshi students are getting UK and USA standard education in the Haileybury Bhaluka School. “Haileybury Bhaluka is recognized as the best boarding school in Bangladesh, offering top-tier education with international standards. Needle to Nations: Bagerhat’s women weave global impact with eco-friendly crafts This international boarding school provides a world-class learning environment and pastoral care for students. As part of the Haileybury UK family, the school prepares students for leading global universities,” said Masum. Haileybury Bhaluka School will save a huge number of foreign currency which is being spent for UK education by Bangladeshi families, now it is provided in the school at a minimum cost, he said. Nestled within a picturesque and secure environment in the Dhamshur Economic Zone, approximately 75 kilometers north of Dhaka, Haileybury Bhaluka boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to foster holistic development. The campus features modern classrooms, advanced science labs, a comprehensive library, and extensive sports amenities, including an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, a professional gym, a music school, a theatre, a world-class cricket ground, and competition-grade courts for various sports. The boarding program emphasizes a nurturing, safe, and vibrant atmosphere, supported by dedicated pastoral care and experienced house parents. Haileybury Bhaluka's distinct advantage lies in its deep roots with Haileybury College UK, consistently ranked among the world's finest schools. This affiliation ensures a rigorous academic curriculum, encompassing Cambridge International Education (CIE) IGCSE, Pearson Edexcel, and the highly acclaimed International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The school proudly highlights its consistent academic excellence, with Haileybury's global IB results regularly placing in the top 1-2% worldwide, enabling graduates to secure admissions to prestigious institutions like Harvard, MIT, LSE, Oxford, and Cambridge. A remarkable feature setting Haileybury Bhaluka apart is its faculty, with all teachers being Harvard-certified, a unique distinction in the region. This commitment to pedagogical excellence is further underscored by strategic global partnerships, including a collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This partnership brings the notable MIT Summer School program to the Haileybury Bhaluka campus, offering students exposure to cutting-edge research and innovation in STEM fields.

A heated debate has emerged surrounding the government's proposed 'Telecommunication Network and Licensing Reform Policy-2025,' aimed at overhauling the nation's telecom licensing framework. Stakeholders are divided on its potential to modernise the sector versus concerns over regulatory changes. Entrepreneurs and related organisations have expressed their anger over the draft being finalised without any discussion with stakeholders. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)has also taken a strong stance on this issue and has urged the government to withdraw the draft policy. On the other hand, the government states that this policy has been designed to reduce consumer costs and attract foreign investment. The Department of Posts and Telecommunications has developed the 'Telecommunication Network and Licensing Reform Policy-2025' to bring major changes to the country's telecom licence system. The draft proposes gradually cancelling old licences such as IGW, IIG, ICX, and NIX, and introducing new licences at both international and national levels. This move is feared to give more control to foreign-owned mobile companies, while small local entrepreneurs worry about losing their businesses. Organisations like ICX, ISPAB, and other entrepreneurs have protested against the draft. BNP has also publicly asked the government to withdraw the policy, with their Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir criticising the government for making decisions quickly without consulting stakeholders. Govt to break syndicate of 'autocrats and mafias' in telecom sector: Taiyeb Fakhrul  warned that this could hinder fair competition and sustainable growth. The government claimed that the main goal of the policy is to improve customer service and lower costs. However, questions have also been raised about its impartiality as the 11-member committee formed to review the draft includes only officials from state-owned institutions. Experts warned that the new framework might lead to a monopoly by large mobile operators, harming thousands of small local businesses that depend on employment in the sector. "If the policy is implemented without proper discussion and thorough analysis, it could negatively affect the country's economy and technological development," experts added. Mohammad Aminul Hakim, President of Internet Service Provider Association Of Bangladesh (ISPAB), told UNB that small local telecom operators are being affected by frequent policy changes. He said that most of these operators are small entrepreneurs holding fixed telecom licences, and the new policy seems to threaten their existing licences and operations, especially in the fibre optic sector. So, there is little protection for local entrepreneurs under these changes, he added. BNP slams BTRC’s draft telecom policy, calls it inappropriate before polls Expressing solidarity with the concerns raised by ISPAB and ICX, BNP  criticised the government's decision during a press conference. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that rushing the draft without stakeholder input could harm small businesses and create monopolies for big operators. He added that lifting restrictions on ownership across multiple sectors could allow large companies to dominate multiple areas, reducing competition and hurting smaller firms. In response, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the Chief Adviser on Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, said that even if foreign investment is encouraged, local entrepreneurs will still be protected. He welcomed opinions from political parties and assured that existing licences won’t be taken away. Those wishing to continue in the new system will need to obtain new licences. Taiyeb also mentioned that the new policy aims to break the influence of past corrupt practices and mafia syndicates controlling the telecom sector. He emphasised that the government is developing this policy through a transparent and democratic process, aiming for a fairer and more competitive industry. Contents of the Draft Policy The proposed ‘Telecommunication Network and Licensing Reform Policy-2025’ outlines significant changes to the licensing system in the telecom sector. It introduces five new types of licences: 1. Access Network Service Provider (ANSP) Licence: For cellular mobile and fixed telecom services. ANSPs will also handle services directly at the customer level.2. National Infrastructure and Connectivity Service Provider (NICSP) Licence: For operating infrastructure such as fibre optics, towers, and transmission networks at the national level.3. International Connectivity Service Provider (ICSP) Licence: For international voice, internet, and data connections.4. Non-Terrestrial Networks and Service Provider (NTNSP) Licence: For satellite services, non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and high-altitude platforms (HAP).5. Telecom Enabled Service Provider: For services like SMS aggregators and OTT platforms. Mobile operators welcome govt's proposed reforms to telecom sector Once the policy is implemented, licences such as IGW, IIG, ICX, NIX, and MNP will be phased out, and companies will need to obtain new licences by 30 June 2027. Foreign ownership limits are proposed as follows: * ANSP: up to 80%* NICSP: up to 55% (or 80% in special cases)* ICSP: up to 49% Debate Over Telecom Policy: Stakeholders Criticise Lack of Consultation While Government Defends the PolicyThe policy also proposes to encourage the launch of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), with increased scrutiny of dominant companies to prevent monopolies. Infrastructure sharing will be made mandatory. Additional plans include expanding services to rural and underdeveloped areas, adhering to cybersecurity and data protection laws, enabling lawful wiretapping, and offering subsidies and discounts based on performance. The framework aims to be fully operational through amendments to existing rules, new licensing, and phased cancellation of old licences by June 2027.

The risk of bird strikes during aircraft take-off and landing is growing alarmingly at airports across Bangladesh particularly at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka ,  raising concerns over a potential aviation disaster. Despite repeated incidents authorities have failed to implement an effective bird control system, leaving planes and lives at risk. Aviation experts and insiders said Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has fallen short in maintaining safety protocols with several systems either outdated or completely inoperative.  On May 20, a Turkish Airlines flight narrowly avoided tragedy after a bird strike ignited one of its engines shortly after take-off.  The pilot observing fire midair contacted the control tower and successfully executed an emergency landing—saving the lives of all 290 passengers on board. Again, on June 27, a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight bound for Singapore suffered a bird strike moments after departure.  The aircraft was forced to turn back midair due to engine damage, highlighting the recurring nature of these threats. Sources at CAAB said the  Bird Monitoring System installed spending over Tk one crore at HSIA in 2022 has been lying idle due to lack of maintenance.  One of its five surveillance cameras is broken, and the main system itself has been out of order for months.  It is now set to be shipped to Italy for repairs, but officials admit they currently have no reliable alternative to manage bird activity near the runway. Besides, laser lights, once used to scare birds at night, are no longer operational.  Gas cannons which produce sound blasts every 10 minutes are used but their effectiveness is limited—especially during the day, said the sources. Even more concerning, the number of bird shooters and functional weapons is dangerously inadequate.  Biman to lease two aircraft soon to meet operational demand: CEO While CAAB should ideally have at least 20 shooter guns only one is working.  Currently, only three CAAB bird control staff are deployed, while the air force supports with two shooters per shift—who are unavailable during weekly holidays and VIP movements. Experts said poorly maintained green areas, nearby water bodies attracting fish and insects, and scattered food waste around airport premises are contributing to increased bird activity.  Aviation expert Kazi Wahidul Alam said, “Globally, the bird strike risk is 0.5 per 10,000 flights but in Bangladesh, it's 1.73. That’s alarmingly high.” ATM Nazrul Islam, another aviation expert, stressed the lack of modern deterrents. “The sound systems have long been out of order. Other countries use special chemical sprays to eliminate bugs underground which reduces bird presence. We’ve done nothing similar, “he said. A recent emergency meeting chaired by immediate-past CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md. Manjur Kabir Bhuiyan, recommended restoring the monitoring system, purchasing more shooter guns, and increasing manpower on the ground. “Birds will continue to be drawn to areas with food and nesting conditions. Unless we address these root causes and invest in modern technology, we’re risking lives with every flight,” he warned. As bird strike incidents pile up and equipment remains in disrepair, Bangladesh's aviation safety is standing on shaky ground. 

Dengue infections are rising sharply in Khulna Division exposing  gaps in hospital preparedness and treatment capacity. In just one week leading up to July 4, at least 117 new patients were hospitalised  in 10 districts in the division, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Last year, more than 10,000 people in Khulna Division contracted dengue, with 35 fatalities reported.  Health officials are now expressing concern over an unusually early spike in cases this year, with many patients showing atypical symptoms such as severe shivering, vomiting, and extreme fatigue. Although dengue season typically runs from August to December the rise in infections this year has begun as early as June and July.  Hospitals are admitting new patients daily, they said. Tanzila Akter, currently undergoing treatment at Khulna Medical College Hospital,  said, “After the fever started, my body began to shake and I started vomiting. The doctors diagnosed it as dengue. I’ve never felt anything like this before.” In another case, the sister of Solaiman Mia, a dengue patient from Sharankhola in Bagerhat, said, “My brother works in the fields. He might have been bitten by a mosquito there. We first took him to the upazila hospital but when the fever didn’t subside and tests confirmed dengue we had to bring him to Khulna.” 116 medical teams to provide treatment to Khulna dengue patients Relatives of several patients have raised concerns about the lack of dedicated dengue treatment facilities.  Rafiqul Islam, a caregiver,  said, “There are no separate arrangements for dengue patients in the hospital. Without isolation, there’s a risk to others too.” Doctors said unlike previous outbreaks, many of this year’s dengue patients are experiencing fever along with intense shivering, vomiting, and extreme fatigue.  In neighbouring coastal district Barguna, dengue has reached alarming levels, with health experts linking the outbreak to stored rainwater used due to the scarcity of clean water in the salinity-hit district.  Similar practices of water storage in drums, tanks, and pots are common in parts of coastal districts Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat, increasing the risk of Aedes mosquito breeding. Advocate Babul Hawlader, Member Secretary of the Khulna Citizens' Committee, expressed dissatisfaction with the local authorities.  “Despite the looming threat, the city corporation’s anti-mosquito drive appears to be weaker than last year. Hospital preparedness is also lacking,” he said. Dr Kazi Didarul Islam, Professor at the Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Discipline of Khulna University, said, “This year, we’re seeing an early spike in dengue cases, and new symptoms suggest a different strain—possibly dengue serotype 1. Standard larvicide spraying alone will not be effective. A comprehensive and coordinated response is essential, and the time to act is now.” Meanwhile, Dr Md Mojibur Rahman, Director of DGHS in Khulna Division, said that directives have been given  to all districts to intensify mosquito control measures and keep hospitals ready to handle a surge in patients.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has been gripped by an uneasy situation as some of its top officials were sent into forced retirement and others put under the Anti-Corruption Commission’s (ACC) scanner allegedly for their involvement in the recent movement under the banner of the ‘NBR Reform Unity Council’. “How would it be an easy situation in the NBR while there are so many things happening in the NBR within this short time?” a senior official of the NBR told UNB. The official who joined the recent movement, preferring anonymity, said that resentment is brewing among the NBR officials and it might take a serious turn. The NBR Reform Unity Council had been demonstrating with a series of protest programmes demanding structural reforms and the removal of the NBR Chairman citing allegations of administrative irregularities, officer intimidation, and obstruction of reform efforts. Since early June the agitating officials held a complete shutdown, marches, work abstentions, hunger strikes, and human chains, disrupting services in tax, VAT and customs offices across the country. The protests began after the government issued an ordinance on May 12 dissolving the NBR and the Internal Resources Division, replacing them with the Revenue Policy Division and the Revenue Management Division, with scope to inject Admin Cadre officials in these two divisions. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) Reform Unity Council on Sunday withdrew its ‘complete shutdown’ and ‘march for NBR’ programme, after a group of leading business people emerged as a bridge between the government and them.  The government has also formed a five-member adviser-level committee to suggest ways to resolve the stalemate centring the reforms in NBR and they held a meeting with the NBR officials on Thursday. The NBR officials were asked to submit their proposals within the next two weeks. NBR launches ‘a-Chalan’ for instant online tax payments The situation seemed to be normal as Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed asked the NBR officials to start their works “without fear and favour” and NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan requested all to work for the country “forgetting past disputes”. But Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Sunday launched a probe against six senior officials of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) on charges of corruption, abuse of power and nepotism in facilitating illegal benefits for individuals and institutions over the past two decades. The six officials under investigation are: AKM Badiul Alam, Member (Income Tax Policy); Mirza Ashiq Rana, Additional Tax Commissioner, Tax Zone-8, Dhaka; Mohammad Morshed Uddin Khan, Joint Tax Commissioner, BCS Tax Academy; Monalisa Shahreen Sushmita, Deputy Tax Commissioner, Tax Zone-16, Dhaka; Hasan Tarek Rikabdar, Additional Commissioner, Audit, Intelligence and Investigation Directorate, VAT, Dhaka; and Sadhan Kumar Kundu, Additional Commissioner, Customs, Excise and VAT Commissionerate, Dhaka (South). Among them, Hasan Tarek serves as the president of the NBR Reform Unity Council and others joined the movement in different categories. The ACC again on Tuesday launched formal investigation against five more senior officials of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) over allegations of amassing illegal wealth, abuse of power, and favouritism. The officials facing the probe are Abdul Rashid Miah, Additional Commissioner, Large Taxpayers Unit (VAT); Md Lutfur Azim, Member; Md Alamgir Hossain, former Additional Director General, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Directorate (CIID); Md Shihabul Islam, Deputy Tax Commissioner, Tax Zone-16, Dhaka; and Md Tarek Hasan, Joint Commissioner.  That is not all. The government on Wednesday sent three NBR members, who were the top most officials of the cadre, into early retirement. According to the Internal Resources Division  website, all of them were sent to forced retirement for the sake of public interest. They are-- Hossain Ahmed (customs policy and ICT), Md Alamgir Hossain and Md Abdur Rouf (VAT policy). The IRD also sent Md. Sobbir Ahmed, (Commissoner of Taxes Zone- Barishal) and M Moinul Erfan (joint director general of Tax inspection directorate) into early retirement. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has suspended Commissioner (in-charge) of Chattogram Custom House Md Zakir Hossain for allegedly disobeying official instructions that resulted in disruption of trade activities and significant revenue losses. According to an NBR circular issued on Monday (July 1), Zakir Hossain violated a prior directive dated June 18, 2025, which ordered all revenue-related offices, including Customs, VAT and Income Tax departments, to remain open on June 21 and June 28 (both Saturdays) to boost revenue collection. Despite this instruction, the Chattogram Custom House remained closed on June 28 (Saturday) and June 29 (Sunday), causing disruptions in import and export activities, and subsequent financial losses to the government. Citing this breach, the NBR has suspended him. Revenue collection activities across the country have come to a near-complete halt due to an unprecedented shutdown of offices under the National Board of Revenue (NBR), triggered by protests and non-cooperation from officials to press home their demands.  On June 28 and 29, key NBR wings, including Customs, VAT and Income Tax, remained virtually inoperative due to the 'complete shutdown' programme and 'march for NBR' programme. The officials, under the banner of NBR Reform Unity Council, had called the protest programmes, demanding the immediate removal of its chairman. NBR enabling companies to file VAT returns from their own systems The NBR Reform Unity Council had been demonstrating with a series of protest programmes demanding structural reforms and the removal of the NBR chairman citing allegations of administrative irregularities, officer intimidation and obstruction of pro-reform efforts. A former commissioner of the NBR who retired a couple of years back, said that those who have been given forced retirement were most sincere and hundred percent honest. “All of them were clean imaged officers, they were in policy wing as they were capable, honest and skilled,” he said, seeking anonymity. But he failed to explain why these officers were sent for early retirement and what is the logic behind such an act of the NBR. “This creates serious resentment among the other officials as far as I know,” he added. He mentioned that these officers were in the forefront and they were not accepting the ongoing irregularities and anomalies in the NBR.

In a firm push to solidify Bangladesh’s economic foundation and accelerate its transition toward a high-growth, sustainable trajectory, the government has rolled out a comprehensive set of policies aimed at revitalising investment and strengthening national savings. Investment remains a central pillar of economic growth, and in recent years, Bangladesh has experienced a slowdown in investment momentum.   Recognising the muted share of investment in GDP, the government has undertaken a range of multi-sectoral strategies to revitalise investment dynamics, according to the Medium Term Macroeconomic Policy Statement of the Finance Ministry. It said these initiatives are expected to gradually strengthen the investment climate and pave the way for higher levels of both private and public investment over the medium-term.  While public investment is slower initially, it is anticipated to reach 6.77 percent of GDP by FY28.  “To support this trajectory, the government is prioritising key infrastructure development, improving ease of doing business, streamlining regulatory frameworks, expanding digital governance and promoting foreign investment,” the document said. The government is also actively working to promote public private partnership (PPP) and enhance access to finance for SMEs and startups.  These multi-sectoral strategies, backed by policy coherence and institutional strengthening, as per the Finance Ministry document, are expected to create a more conducive environment for sustainable and inclusive investment-led growth. Bangladesh is pursuing a broad-based strategy to elevate investment — both public and private — as part of its post‑LDC transition and economic modernisation. Public investment via the Annual Development Programme (ADP) is poised for a boost, with capital spending set to rise to 6.68% of GDP in FY 2025‑26, up from 6.50% in FY 2023‑24 and 6.41% in FY 2024‑25. The ADP aims to reinforce infrastructure, social safety nets, and reduce bottlenecks affecting private-sector growth. In a parallel move, the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025 held in April in Dhaka yielded a high-profile Investment Portfolio and a Tk 900 crore Innovation Fund, generating over 150 B2G meetings. The summit reinforced Bangladesh’s reform-minded image and secured fresh FDI commitments in renewable energy, digital economy, textiles, healthcare and agro‑processing. National budget focuses on gender parity and women empowerment: Finance Ministry Alongside efforts to boost investment, the government is also focusing on strengthening national savings to ensure a more balanced and self-reliant financing structure for growth.  National savings are also projected to rise in tandem, which will help narrow the savings-investment gap over the medium-term.  Gross national savings, which slightly dipped to 28.42 percent of GDP in FY24, are expected to improve steadily.  It is expected to reach 31.66 percent by FY28 as there are expectations that inflation will stabilise, remittance inflows strengthen, and household and corporate savings behaviour improve.  Similarly, gross domestic savings are projected to increase from 23.96 percent in FY24 to 26.59 percent by FY28.  Bangladesh’s gross domestic savings has registered a modest improvement in the current fiscal year, reflecting cautious optimism in the country’s macroeconomic stability. The increase is attributed to restrained private consumption, improved remittance inflow and moderate inflationary pressure. Despite the improvement, Bangladesh still faces challenges in translating higher domestic savings into productive investment. The investment-to-GDP ratio remains relatively stagnant, indicating a gap between available savings and capital deployment. Finance ministry officials noted that greater financial inclusion, reforms in the banking sector, and improved investment climate are essential to harness domestic savings effectively. They also emphasised the need to channel savings into productive sectors, especially manufacturing and infrastructure, to support long-term growth. These projections and the government’s policy measures are expected to strengthen the savings outlook, which will reduce the reliance on external financing and ensure greater macroeconomic stability, the document hoped.