United News of Bangladesh

There was a time when the villages of Badarganj upazila in Rangpur would come alive with the sweet aroma of sugarcane. Whenever the factory siren sounded, life would return to the workers' settlement and the local market would become bustling. But that siren has been silent for a long time. Although there was an announcement to reopen the mill nine months ago, Shyampur Sugar Mill — once the region’s only heavy industry — remains shut. Hopes raised by that promise have since given way to frustration, as the government taskforce's revival plan stalls in the absence of necessary funding. As a result, over 4,500 workers from Badarganj, Taraganj and Sadar upazila of Rangpur district remain unemployed, many struggling to survive in increasingly dire conditions. Entire families in the mill’s workers’ colony now face uncertainty, with no income and little assurance of when — or if — things will improve. Established in 1964 on 111.45 acres of land, Shyampur Sugar Mill began crushing sugarcane in 1967. Sugarcane threshing to begin at Drashana's Carew & Co sugar mill on Friday With a daily crushing capacity of 1,016 tonnes and an annual production capacity of over 10,161 tonnes, the mill once supported sugarcane cultivation across 10,000 acres and was directly connected to over 10,000 farmers. In the 2020-21 fiscal year, the sugar mill halted its sugarcane crushing operations after facing a loss of 226 crore. Most farmers stopped cultivating sugarcane and shifted to other crops, which have not proven financially viable, weakening them economically. In December 2024, the government announced plans to reopen the mill based on recommendations from a task force. The plan included ensuring a sufficient supply of sugarcane and reviving the mill on a profitable basis. Later, a financial estimate was prepared for sugarcane cultivation and replanting expenses for the fiscal years 2024–25, 2025–26 and 2026–27. Sugarcane threshing begins in Joypurhat Sugar Mills On February 10, this year, a letter was sent to the Finance Division through the Ministry of Industries requesting Tk 537 crore for the 2024–25 fiscal years. Another letter was sent on July 13, seeking fund. Despite these efforts, the Finance Division rejected the funding request in a letter dated July 30. During a recent visit to the mill this correspondent fund that the premises are overgrown with vegetation and machinery—including sugarcane transport tractors and trolleys—lies neglected and rusting under the sun and rain. Fazlul Haque, a sugarcane farmer from Shyampur, said farmers staged demonstrations for long demanding reopening of the mill. He expressed disappointment after hearing the mill might not reopen as promised by the current interim government. Expressing dissatisfaction, Anarul Islam, another farmer, said that the local economy has collapsed since the mill was shut down.  "There used to be trade worth crores of taka here. Farmers and traders lived like city dwellers. Now, there’s no profit in growing alternative crops, and local business has dried up,” he said. Mosharraf Hossain, Managing Director of Shyampur Sugar Mill, said, “The plan was to reopen Shyampur Sugar Mill in the first phase. But due to the Finance Division’s refusal to release funds, it couldn’t happen. Our chairman and directors are in communication with the Finance Division. Salaries and allowances are up to date. We want the mill to reopen as soon as possible.” Altaf Hossain, a member of the closed sugar mill task force committee and local resident, said, “The task force proposed ways to modernise and make these mills profitable. But without the necessary funds, the future of these initiatives is uncertain. If utilized properly, these assets worth thousands of crores could be profitable instead of being a loss burden.” Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Rabiul Faisal said, “We are trying to engage with the ministry to see if the mill can be reopened quickly. We remain hopeful.”

With the arrival of Bangla month of Kartik, the signs of approaching winter are becoming increasingly visible across northern districts of the country as surroundings remain blanketed in fog during the morning.   For the past few days, the rural areas of across five upazilas in Lalmonirhat district have been wrapped in thick fog before dawn while the cool morning breeze signals the onset of the cold season. On Monday morning, dense fog covered much of the district shrouding roads and golden paddy fields under a misty veil. According to Rajarhat Weather Office in nearby Kurigram district, the minimum temperature at 9 am was recorded at 23.7 degrees Celsius, with humidity at 92 percent, indicating the seasonal transition. Jashore emerges as Bangladesh’s winter vegetable seedling hub “Whenever Hemanta (late autumn) arrives, we know the season of Nabanna is near. It’s time for new rice and traditional rice cakes. This is when the villages come back to life,” said Nur Mohammad, a farmer from Chalbala village in Kaliganj upazila.

A rural infrastructure project meant to ease transportation woes in Shahrasti upazila of Chandpur has become a textbook case of alleged financial irregularities, as Tk 50 lakh was reportedly withdrawn without any construction taking place. The residents of Ragoi village in Suchiparasouth Union allege that a 12-metre-long culvert, planned under the 2023–2024 fiscal year’s rural development initiative, remains untouched even months after funds were released. The revelation has sparked anger among locals and prompted an official probe into possible corruption and administrative negligence. According to official documents, the project had an allocation exceeding Tk 1.8 crore, with a portion earmarked for building the culvert at Tapadar Bari Khalpara area. Contractor Tajul Islam Sumon was assigned to carry out the work. But, construction never started despite the site’s readiness. In May 2025, the contractor withdrew Tk 50 lakh—almost half of the allocated funds—without initiating any physical work. Stranded by Neglect: Khagrachhari villagers brave crumbling culvert for over a decade The irregularity came to light through an upazila development progress report dated May 29, reportedly signed by the then Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Nigar Sultana and Upazila Project Implementation Officer (PIO) Md Sabuj. Both officials have since been transferred, according to sources who preferred anonymity. Current UNO Nazia Hossain confirmed the allegations, saying, “The contractor has withdrawn Tk 50 lakh without doing the work… a formal investigation is underway. Action will follow based on the findings.” Deputy Commissioner of the district Mohammad Mohsin Uddin also assured accountability. “If the project bill was withdrawn without completing the work, action will definitely be taken. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the culvert is constructed.” For residents, the unbuilt culvert represents more than just an unfinished project—it is a disruption to daily life. Frustrations mount as bridge-culverts damaged in 2017 floods still in disrepair Abu Sayeed, a local resident, said, “The contractor didn’t start the work. After the issue surfaced, he only left some stones at the site.” Another villager, Mojibur Rahman, described the culvert as essential. “It’s vital for our area. Without it, travel becomes difficult, especially during the rainy season.”  

At first glance, the white polythene canopies stretching across both sides of the road just 10 kilometres west of Jashore town resemble festive tents set up for a grand wedding. A closer look, however, reveals a different celebration — one of soil, sweat and seedlings. This vibrant landscape belongs to Abdulpur and Bagdanga villages in Jashore Sadar upazila, widely recognised as the country’s winter vegetable seedling capital, where a quiet agricultural revolution is underway. As evening falls or rain begins, farmers cover the seedbeds to protect young plants. Some are busy sowing seeds, others watering the sprouts, while some uproot mature seedlings for sale. Between 250 to 300 growers in Abdulpur and Bagdanga produce 20 to 25 crore vegetable seedlings over a six-month season, generating sales worth Tk 20 to 30 crore, according to local farmers. These seedlings, including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, beet, turnip, tomato and chili, are distributed to nearly all 64 districts of Bangladesh. From morning to dusk, farmers and traders from across the country flock to the area to collect high-quality seedlings, which have gained a reputation even in the most remote corners of the country. How to know when your garden vegetables are ready to harvest Rekan Mia, a grower from Abdulpur, said seedling production began in the area around 20 years ago, but commercial-scale production has accelerated over the past decade. He, however, noted that excessive rainfall this year disrupted several planting cycles, causing significant losses. The rising prices of seeds, fertilisers, labour and polythene have added to farmers’ financial strain, he said, urging the government to provide financial assistance to help recover the losses. Saddam Hossain, another grower from Bagdanga, pointed out their seedlings are sold both online and offline across the country. “Traders from different districts come to purchase seedlings directly. There’s also a dedicated seedling market at the Churamankathi bazaar in Sadar upazila, which attracts buyers nationwide,” he said. Mamun Hossain shared current rates, noting that good-quality cauliflower seedlings sell for Tk 1,000–1,500 per thousand, while cabbage seedlings range from Tk 800-1,100 depending on quality. “We produce all types of winter vegetable seedlings here. Commercial seedling cultivation has created employment for many locals. With proper government support, this sector can see further growth,” he added. Prices of winter vegetables drop in Khulna, essentials continue to rise

Once a weekly staple, the prized national fish hilsa has now become a luxury for many, with its price surging by nearly 50 percent over the past year amid rising market costs. A recent survey by the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission (BTTC) revealed that between August and September alone, hilsa prices surged by Tk 200–500 per kg, with large specimens sometimes fetching an astonishing Tk 1,000 increase. Last August, a 1.5 kg hilsa sold for a maximum of Tk 2,000 per kg; by 2025, the same fish now commands Tk 3,000, reflecting a sharp 50 percent spike in just twelve months. 22-day hilsa fishing ban to begin Friday midnight A stroll through Dhaka’s bustling kitchen markets paints a stark picture: river fish are almost vanishing from the shelves, a consequence of the government’s ongoing fishing ban designed to preserve the species. Locally caught fish such as ‘rui’, ‘katla’, ‘koi’ and ‘shing’ have filled the gap, but at significantly higher prices. For shoppers, the joy of seeing hilsa in the market is often tempered by sticker shock. “Just before the ban, buyers rush to stock hilsa, and that automatically pushes up the price,” explained Enamul, a fish trader at Shantinagar kitchen market. Another vendor at Karwan Bazar pointed out that wholesale price has surged, forcing retailers to raise rates, even though supply has not been disrupted. Hilsa catching, sales banned for 22 days from Oct 4 For consumers, however, the once-affordable fish has become almost unattainable. “A decade ago, big hilsa were sold in pairs for under Tk 2,000. Now, buying just one costs at least Tk 5,000,” lamented Mohibur Rahman. Shoppers like Arif Hossain also voice frustration at the paradox of the fishing ban. “Fishing, transportation, and marketing of hilsa are banned for 22 days every year. The government says it helps increase production. If production rises, prices should logically go down — but that never happens. In fact, hilsa prices skyrocket during the first week after the ban is lifted,” he said. Middle-class families, who once relished the aroma of freshly fried hilsa on weekend afternoons, now have to compromise. “Hilsa is our national fish, and its price should be affordable for everyone. But it’s being sold at exorbitant rates. For middle-class families, buying hilsa has become a luxury,” said Shagufta Akter Lipi. Many households have resorted to cheaper alternatives to meet their protein needs. Yet despite the soaring prices, the real beneficiaries—fishermen—see little gain. In Bhola, the country’s largest hilsa-producing district, most fishermen rely on leased boats and advance loans from wholesalers, locally known as dadon. They are often compelled to sell their catch at fixed rates, leaving minimal profit. Hilsa floods Chandpur markets, prices drop “Our share is tiny. After repaying the dadon money, nothing much remains,” said veteran fisherman Khalek Majhi. The BTTC study highlights the convoluted journey of hilsa from river to table. Typically, the fish changes hands five times—fishermen, landing stations, wholesalers, commission agents, retailers and finally, buyers. While fishermen might earn only Tk 800 per kg for large hilsa, the same fish reaches Dhaka markets at Tk 3,000, reflecting a huge markup driven by multiple intermediaries. The study breaks down the costs further: fishing expenses range from Tk 470–500 per kg, resale margins often add Tk 1,000, and additional costs include Tk 75 for wholesale-to-retail transfers, Tk 150 from retail to consumer, and commissions exceeding 10 percent in some cases. Syndicate practices, including cold storage stockpiling, further fuel price spikes. “Hilsa prices naturally rise by over 60-70 percent just due to multiple handovers, and syndicate manipulation makes it worse,” noted Sabbir Hossain Khan, an agricultural economist and PhD researcher at Tokyo University of Agriculture. To tame these soaring prices and ensure fair returns for fishermen, the BTTC has recommended reducing the number of middlemen. Proposals include empowering fishermen’s cooperatives or establishing government marketing outlets to supply hilsa directly during peak season, offering hope that the nation’s cherished fish could one day grace the dinner table without burning holes in pockets.  

In the serene hills of Khagrachhari and Rangamati districts, an unusual yet striking sight has become a seasonal norm: dozens of pomelos, locally known as ‘jambura’, drifting gently down rivers and streams. This phenomenon is drawing attention as a brilliant example of ingenious local business practice. Local farmers transport pomelo fruits from remote hilly areas by floating them across rivers, as overland transport is challenging. During the pomelo season, the traditional knowledge and techniques involved in floating these hilly jamburas are clearly visible. Where the fruits would normally hang on trees, countless pomelos are now seen floating in rivers and streams. At first glance, it may appear they have been discarded due to spoilage, but in reality, this is a clever transportation technique devised by indigenous farmers of the Chittagong Hill Tracts to overcome logistical hurdles. Garbage pile turns Companiganj Bazar into a breeding ground for diseases With the harvest season in full swing, moving pomelos from remote hill gardens to markets poses significant difficulties due to rugged terrain and limited road access. To overcome these challenges, local farmers have turned to nature—floating freshly picked fruits downstream. Using the natural current of rivers and streams, they transport the fruits to accessible locations, where small bamboo enclosures are set up to catch and collect them. From there, the fruits are processed and distributed to markets across the country. This floating method significantly reduces transportation costs, which are otherwise high due to poor road conditions in the hilly areas. Moreover, it minimises damage to the fruits during transport. Farmers also say that sorting becomes easier, as any spoiled fruit can be quickly identified once it surfaces. Local farmers, including Asit Baran Chakma and Kalayan Chakma, said this natural transportation method has increased their profit margins, allowing them to send produce to distant markets without incurring extra costs.

A massive garbage dump along the Cumilla-Sylhet highway, adjacent to the bustling Companiganj Bazar in Muradnagar Upazila, has turned into a serious public health hazard. Piled high with rotting vegetables, discarded polythene, institutional waste and stagnant water, the site has become an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Following recent rains, the area has turned into a swamp of filth, leaving locals deeply concerned about a potential outbreak of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases. In the searing heat of the Gaza summer, Palestinians are surrounded by sewage and garbage Pedestrians and nearby residents have been enduring an unbearable stench and relentless mosquito infestation. Many have called for urgent intervention from the authorities to prevent the situation from worsening. Abul Kashem Khan, president of the Companiganj Bazar Chemist and Druggist Association, said the conditions had made it nearly impossible to run his business properly. “It has become difficult to sit in my pharmacy due to the stench and filth next to the market. Patients and customers get annoyed and leave. Considering the health risks and the rising dengue cases, a prompt cleaning campaign is essential," he said. Local resident Kuhinur Begum expressed similar frustration. “It’s hard to breathe because of the stench. After sunset, it’s impossible to go outside due to the mosquito invasion. Water stays stagnant here for weeks. If this continues, it will turn into a major health crisis,” she said. DNCC mayor warns of legal action against garbage dumping in canals Traders at the market blamed the long-standing negligence of the market committee, saying waste management had completely collapsed. With no designated dumping zones, heaps of rubbish have spread across the market area and onto parts of the highway. Chandan Banik, former convener of the Greater Companiganj Bazar Banik Samiti, said the worsening situation was tarnishing the market’s reputation. “Traders and buyers are suffering. There must be a proper waste disposal site. A joint initiative by the market committee and the administration could solve this,” he suggested. Dr Sirajul Islam Manik, Muradnagar Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, described the dengue situation as “already alarming”. He explained that garbage piles and stagnant water serve as primary breeding grounds for mosquitoes. “Without cleanliness in and around the market, infection rates will continue to rise,” he warned. Mansur Alam, deputy assistant public health engineer in Muradnagar, said that dumping waste in open spaces like this poses serious risks to both public health and the environment. “Designated waste disposal sites and regular cleaning drives are essential to overcome this problem,” he added. Muradnagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Abdur Rahman acknowledged the problem, noting that waste management is particularly challenging in areas without a municipality. “We are aware of the situation. Immediate steps will be taken to ensure a healthier environment around the market,” he said. He said the Department of Public Health Engineering and the Union Parishad have already been instructed to strengthen cleaning efforts. Locals are now demanding urgent waste removal, the establishment of designated dumping points and regular sanitation drives. They believe swift and coordinated action from the administration could quickly restore cleanliness, safety and livability to this vital commercial hub.  

The government has taken an initiative to modernise and digitise the National Archives and the National Library under a new project aimed at informing the next generation about the nation’s true history and preserving cultural heritage. The Department of Archives and Libraries under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs will implement the project titled “Digitisation, Online Service Expansion and Modernisation of the National Archives and the National Library.” The project with an estimated cost of Tk 234.70 crore will be entirely funded by the government which is scheduled to run from July, 2025 to June, 2029. According to the project documents, nearly nine crore archival and library materials will be digitised using modern technologies such as barcoding, RFID and other digital methods to ensure systematic preservation. The project also aims to strengthen the digital security of national data and enhance online access to archival and library resources. It will also include capacity-building programmes for officers and staff of the Department of Archives and Libraries as well as relevant government offices to improve their record management skills. Various types of books, documents, newspapers and magazines are constantly being accumulated and their numbers are increasing every day, according to the document. No record in National Archives can be destroyed; bill passed Besides, with the rise in literacy rates, people’s creativity is also being increasingly expressed through various publications, it said. Considerable space is required to manually store all these collections and if the growth continues at this pace, it will eventually become impossible to accommodate them. The stored physical records may also deteriorate over time and become unusable, meaning that future generations could be deprived of access to authentic historical materials. Accordingly, the restructured Development Project Proposal/Proforma (DPP)of the project has been submitted to the Bangladesh Planning Commission for approval. The National Archives and the National Library are both based in Dhaka and thus the project area has been limited to Sher-e-Bangla Nagar under Dhaka North City Corporation. A feasibility study conducted by the Bangladesh Computer Council in 2023 and another by BUET in 2021, both endorsed the project as timely and practical. Major components of the project include Tk 155 crore for data preservation, Tk 14.95 crore for fittings and fixtures, Tk 32.14 crore for fire safety equipment, Tk 6.50 crore for cameras and accessories, and Tk 4.99 crore for software procurement. The archives and libraries are among the most important means of expressing people’s creativity, alongside the growing literacy rate in the country. Preserve true history of Liberation War: President  In this context, the project will play a crucial role in preserving and promoting Bangladesh’s historical and cultural heritage for research and educational purposes. The Planning Commission, in its observations, said the project would transform the National Archives and the National Library into fully digital repositories, enhancing the preservation, security and accessibility of Bangladesh’s invaluable historical and cultural records.

The government has undertaken a major initiative to establish railway connectivity with all economic zones (EZs) across the country, including the National Special Economic Zone in Chattogram’s Mirsarai, to make goods transportation faster, cheaper and more efficient. “We are preparing an integrated plan for all economic zones in the country with focus on Mirsarai. Our goal is to connect each economic zone directly to railway lines to facilitate smooth goods transportation,” said Sheikh Moinuddin, Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant on the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges and the Ministry of Railways. “Currently, goods have to be transported by trucks to reach the train. We want to ensure that containers or goods can be loaded directly onto trains from all economic zones. This will save both time and cost while also making industrial operations more efficient,” he added. According to officials, a comprehensive master plan is being prepared to link all economic zones directly with the country’s railway, road and port networks. “This will add a new dimension to the national transport system,” Sheikh Moinuddin said. Dhaka-Ctg highway’s 10-lane expansion shelved; focus shifts to railway Once implemented, he said, the initiative would significantly strengthen Bangladesh’s industrialisation drive, boost exports and improve the overall goods transportation system. Bangladesh has been developing economic zones to accelerate industrial growth, attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and create large-scale employment opportunities. The previous government set an ambitious target to establish 100 economic zones by 2025, but the current administration is prioritising the development of five fully operational EZs to ensure effective delivery. The Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) has already prepared a two-year roadmap to make these five zones fully functional. Par Bishnupur residents in Narial fall victims to riverbank erosion BEZA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin announced earlier this year that the zones are expected to attract $5.5 billion in investment and create over 200,000 jobs. The five targeted zones are: ·         National Special Economic Zone in Chattogram, Mirsarai ·         Sylhet Economic Zone ·         Jamalpur Economic Zone ·         Maheshkhali Economic Zone ·         Japanese Economic Zone Among these, the National Special Economic Zone in Chattogram stands out as the largest public sector EZ. Spread over 30,000 acres of land across Mirsarai, Sonagazi and Sitakunda upazilas, and this planned and modern industrial hub is poised to play a pivotal role in driving the country’s industrialisation efforts. Experts say establishing direct rail connectivity to Mirsarai’s economic zone will be crucial for seamless movement of raw materials and finished goods to ports and markets, further enhancing its attractiveness to both local and foreign investors.  

Around 550 kilometres of roads in Rangpur district and the city remain in deplorable condition for decades due to poor maintenance, leaving thousands of commuters, students, transport workers and patients to suffer every day. According to the office of the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Rangpur Range, 76 road accidents occurred in the district over the past two years, killing 51 people and injuring 356 others. Locals said the dismal state of roads, riddled with cracks and potholes, has made many routes almost impassable. Despite repeated petitions and symbolic protests,  including planting saplings along the broken roads, authorities have yet to take visible steps towards repairs. Data from the Rangpur Local Government and Engineering Department (LGED) shows that out of 7,738 kilometres of roads across eight upazilas, 240 kilometres are severely damaged. Dhaka-Ctg highway’s 10-lane expansion shelved; focus shifts to railway Among them, 27.197 kilometres are in poor condition in Bhedarganj upazila, 22.295 kilometres in Gangachara, 16.650 kilometres in Kaunia, 74.120 kilometres in Mithapukur, 33.73 kilometres in Pirgachha, 40.470 kilometres in Pirganj, 10.480 kilometres in Taraganj and 20.200 kilometres in Sadar upazila. Meanwhile, Rangpur City Corporation (RpCC) reports that 300 kilometres of roads out of 302 square kilometres across its 33 wards have deteriorated badly.  The four-kilometre stretch from Jahaj Company to Satmatha has become a virtual death trap for travellers, according to locals. The Rangpur Roads and Highways Department (RHD) also admits that 11 kilometres of its 382-kilometre road network are in extremely poor shape. A 2.29-kilometre section from Medical East Gate to Burirhat is riddled with potholes and erosion, frequently going under water during rains. Temporary repairs, officials say, have proven ineffective. Similarly, the eight-kilometre stretch between Rangpur Medical intersection and Modern intersection, along with another one-kilometre portion near Paglapir on the National Highway, has also become hazardous. An RHD official, requesting anonymity, said that a tender was floated for a Tk 7 crore road repair project for the Medical–Burirhat in March last year, but it is still awaiting approval from the secretary’s office.  Farmers’ fortunes rise as Rautnagar Canal revives Thakurgaon’s farmlands “Besides, an additional Tk 38 crore is urgently needed for the Road Division but remains unfunded,” the official added. Rangpur RHD Executive Engineer Md Moniruzzaman said Tk 37 crore is currently required to repair regional roads, but the proposal is pending fund release.  “Without approval, we can’t begin the work and people continue to suffer,” he said. LGED Executive Engineer Md Musa said Tk 120 crore is needed to repair 240 kilometres of rural roads. “But Tk 20 crore in previous allocations remains unpaid. Of the Tk 140 crore needed, only Tk 70 crore has been approved so far -- insufficient to complete the repairs,” he said. Rangpur City Corporation Supervising Engineer Azam Ali also noted the dire state of city roads. “Tk 210 crore is required to fix the city’s 300-kilometre road network. Without funding, no repair work is possible,” he added. During a recent visit to the affected areas, this UNB correspondent found most roads filled with deep potholes, forcing vehicles to sway dangerously. Even a light drizzle turns these roads into muddy, impassable stretches. Par Bishnupur residents in Narial fall victims to riverbank erosion Locals said accidents have become an almost daily occurrence, yet neither the government nor the ministry appears to be taking effective measures.  “We’ve protested in every way possible, but nothing changes,” said Abdul Hamid, a resident of Pirgachha. Transport owners are equally frustrated. “Our buses and trucks are constantly getting damaged due to the poor condition of the roads,” said Abdul Majid, a bus owner in Rangpur city. “Vehicle parts wear out faster, maintenance costs have skyrocketed, and we are forced to raise fares — passengers are the ones who suffer most,” he added. Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Shahidul Islam said funding requests have been sent to the relevant ministries.  “We are hopeful that allocations will be approved soon and repair work will commence accordingly,” he said.