Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC has showcased remarkable resilience, achieving a 5% growth in deposits year-on-year as of December 2024. Despite challenges in the banking sector, the bank has firmly established its position as a trusted institution among depositors and investors. The financial statement of Islami Bank revealed deposits amounting to approximately Tk1.61 lakh crore in December 2024, compared to Tk1.54 lakh crore in December 2023. Investments also saw an increase, rising from Tk1.50 lakh crore in 2023 to Tk1.59 lakh crore in 2024. December 2024 proved to be a record-breaking month for remittances, with the bank receiving around Tk681,00 crore—approximately one-third of the country’s total remittances for the month. Islami Bank continues to lead the private sector in import and export finance, recording Tk648,00 crore in import financing and Tk324,00 crore in export financing for 2024. Currently serving 2.5 crore customers, the bank’s expansive network of 400 branches, 265 sub-branches, 2,800 agent banking outlets, and 3,000 ATM/CRM booths underscores its commitment to reaching every corner of the nation. A branch manager, speaking anonymously, assured, “Customers can withdraw money from branches without interruption. There are no complaints about liquidity issues, and cash transactions are operating normally.” Read: Islami Bank to issue new shares, sell S Alam Group's seized ones The bank’s RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement) system has also remained fully operational, ensuring smooth and timely money transfers. Resilience Amid Challenges Despite the liquidity challenges faced by the banking sector in August 2024, Islami Bank has managed to recover swiftly. Governor of the Bangladesh Bank Dr Ahsan H Mansur recently commended the bank's important role in the country’s economy, stating, “Islami Bank is the number one bank in the country. It has turned around within the shortest time and is moving forward smoothly. This bank will not look back anymore.” Dr Shah Md. Ahsan Habib, a professor at the Bangladesh Institute of Bank Management (BIBM), attributed the bank’s resilience to its deep grassroots connections and the strong social networks of its employees. Read more: Islami Bank appoints 4 audit firms to investigate irregularities post S Alam Group takeover He highlighted the role of small depositors, saying, “In the context of Bangladesh, small depositors are the assets of a bank. Islami Bank, with its vast network, has successfully gained the trust of these depositors.” Leadership and Achievements Islami Bank’s Chairman, Md Obayed Ullah Al Masud, affirmed the institution’s consistent leadership in the private banking sector. He revealed that Bangladeshi expatriates remitted $26.89 billion in 2024, with Islami Bank facilitating 21.47% of this, equivalent to remittances from 163 countries. The top remittance-sending nations included Saudi Arabia, the USA, the UAE, Malaysia, Singapore, Qatar, Italy, and Kuwait. “Our 5% deposit growth in 2024 compared to 2023 is a testament to the confidence people have in us. Islami Bank will only continue to move forward,” Masud stated confidently. The bank’s contributions to the economy are vast, with investments in over 6,000 industries, support for 20 lakh entrepreneurs, and employment opportunities for 1 crore people. Read more: No restrictions on business operations and opening LCs in Islami Bank: BB Governor Besides, its small investment schemes have benefited 18 lakh marginal families, further cementing its role as a driver of socio-economic development. As the leading private sector bank in Bangladesh, Islami Bank’s robust performance, grassroots connections, and unwavering customer trust place it firmly on the path to continued success.

Several hundred thousand residents in Jagannathpur upazila of Sunamganj are going through severe hardship due to the poor condition of three major bridges over the Naljur River. These bridges, located in the heart of the upazila, have become increasingly unsafe, causing constant traffic jams and raising concerns over potential accidents. One of the main bridges, situated near the food warehouse in Naljur area, has been under construction for over a year and a half, after the old bridge was demolished. Despite initial promises, the new bridge is only about 60 percent complete, with no end in sight. Meanwhile, another bridge, the Dak Bungalow Bridge, is under threat due to increased vehicle pressure, and its narrowness is causing frequent traffic congestion. Hatirjheel: From scenic spot to a place of fear The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing use of an alternative Bailey Bridge, which operates under one-way traffic. The approach road to this bridge is in terrible condition, making it difficult to navigate. Adding to the problem, a bamboo bridge built for pedestrians next to the new bridge is rapidly deteriorating, making it almost impossible to walk across safely. Zakir Hossain, a local resident of the area, said "We are fed up with the constant demolition and delay of these bridges.”  “We’ve been living with this problem for too long, and the administration has not taken effective action," Zakir added. Another passerby, Shamim Ahmed, said that the crowd in the area has increased significantly after the Upazila Sadar was converted into a municipality. Siddhirganj Lake Project, supposed to be completed in 2021, still incomplete “Lakhs of people are suffering due to the pitiful condition of these bridges," he added. The issues surrounding these bridges have a long history. In 1987, the original bridge in front of the food warehouse was built with the initiative of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief. However, during the tenure of the previous government, it was demolished, and on March 26, 2023, former Planning Minister MA Mannan laid the foundation for a new bridge, modeled after Hatirjheel in Dhaka. The project was estimated to cost Tk 14 crore and work was given to Kishoreganj-based contractor M/s Bhati Bangla Enterprise. However, despite the expectation that construction would be completed by April 2024, the work has been progressing at a slow pace, with only 60 percent of the work completed. Large influx of migratory birds enhances scenic charm of Ramrai Dighi in Thakurgaon Local residents raised concerns during the bridge's construction, warning that it might go under water during the monsoon and urged for it to be raised. However, their concerns were ignored, and the bridge sank during heavy rains and flash floods, causing traffic to be closed for three to four months each monsoon. Meanwhile, the construction of the Dak Bungalow Bridge on the same river began in 1988 with funds from locals and businessmen, and was completed in 1996 by LGED. In 2022, the bridge was damaged when an excavator accidentally cut through its pillar during river excavation work. This led to an 11-month closure of the bridge, with the only available traffic route being the damaged alternative bridge. Even after steel plates were installed to temporarily restore the Dak Bungalow Bridge, its condition remained precarious, and traffic was restricted due to the heavy vehicle load and rising water levels. Saiful Alam, site manager overseeing the construction of the new bridge, said that delays were partly due to the rising water levels in the river. Informal bargaining overtakes app-based ridesharing in Bangladesh! However, he assured that construction was now progressing rapidly and would be completed soon. "We expect the construction work of the bridge to be finished by February," said Sohrab Hossain, Jagannathpur Upazila Engineer at the Local Government Engineering Department. Once the new bridge is completed, it is hoped that the public suffering will ease. However, until then, the residents of Jagannathpur remain caught in a cycle of traffic chaos, safety concerns, and frustration over ongoing delays. Traffic congestion escalates in Narayanganj city due to rules violation

Hatirjheel, a scenic lake in Dhaka celebrated for its picturesque views and bustling crowds, is increasingly becoming synonymous with fear and crime. While it remains a favoured destination for families, couples and tourists, the area’s darker side has drawn growing concern. A visit to Hatirjheel and conversations with visitors revealed a mix of admiration for its beauty and apprehension about safety. Raihan Masud, a resident of Badda, often visits the lake with his young child. “My child enjoys coming here on weekends, so I bring them during the day. However, the area feels unsafe, especially after dark. We often hear of thefts and muggings, so we leave before nightfall,” he shared. For some, the fear is closer to home. A local resident, speaking anonymously, recounted a burglary in their neighbourhood. “The house opposite mine was robbed one evening before the owners returned from work. We heard their screams and found the house ransacked. The thieves fled before taking anything, likely out of fear of being caught,” he said. As evening descends on Hatirjheel, certain areas become eerily quiet. Read: Police rescue kidnapping victim in Hatirjheel, arrest three suspects Teenagers and middle-aged individuals gather in groups, but interactions with them often elicit evasive or hostile responses. Local vendors, who operate until around 11 pm, say the atmosphere changes late at night. “Drug use and muggings start happening after we leave,” one vendor explained. Police Perspective Inspector Raju Ahmed of Hatirjheel Police Station confirmed that the area faces persistent crime. “Hatirjheel is a hotspot for theft and mugging. Most perpetrators are drug addicts, often unemployed and from lower-income backgrounds. These crimes are easier for them to commit given the area’s dense population and economic disparity,” he said. Inspector Ahmed also pointed to the prevalence of drug use in Hatirjheel. “The majority of addicts here consume marijuana, including teenagers, rickshaw pullers, and even wealthier individuals who arrive in cars to drink alcohol. While large drug shipments are rare, small-scale dealing is common. We detain those we catch red-handed, but large-scale arrests are limited.” A Cycle of Arrests and Bail The police claim to make hundreds of arrests daily. “By morning, our cells are full of those detained for drug use or loitering. Read more: Body of Gazi TV’s newsroom editor recovered from Hatirjheel Lake But most of them secure bail quickly, including individuals previously involved in major crimes. Their associates often continue criminal activities like theft and mugging,” Ahmed added. Despite recognising the area’s vulnerabilities, the police have yet to officially declare Hatirjheel a crime hotspot. “We analyse crime patterns to guide our operations, but no formal designation has been made,” Ahmed said. A Six-Month Snapshot of Crime According to police data, the last six months have seen 19 murders, four rapes, 23 thefts, 16 suicides, and six muggings in the Hatirjheel area. While no bodies have been found in public spaces, these crimes often occur in nearby homes, with investigations ongoing. “We are working to uncover the root causes of these incidents and take appropriate action,” the police officer said. Hatirjheel’s transformation from a serene urban retreat to a feared crime zone is a troubling development for Dhaka’s residents. For now, locals said, its beauty remains tempered by caution, as visitors weigh the risks of enjoying its charm.

The Siddhirganj Lake project, intended to enhance the area’s natural beauty and provide a Hatirjheel-style environment, has been stalled for over five years. Siddhirganj, located in Narayanganj, has seen rapid population growth due to industrial development, with the Adamji EPZ alone employing nearly 100,000 workers. This industrialisation has left little room for natural beauty in the area. In an effort to address this, the Narayanganj City Corporation launched several mega projects, one of which was the Siddhirganj Lake project, aimed at improving the area's natural beauty. The project began with the re-excavation of the lake, along with roadworks, drains, walkways, and landscaping in the 2018-19 fiscal year. Former Mayor Dr. Selina Hayat officially inaugurated the project in two phases on February 11 and May 3, 2019. The beautification of the five-and-a-half-kilometre stretch from Golakata Bridge in Ward No. 3 to Bhangar Bridge in Ward No. 8 was estimated to cost Tk 63.48 crore, while the construction of six bridges over the lake was budgeted at Tk 35.84 crore. The project was to be implemented by Narayanganj City Corporation with funding from JICA, and the work was expected to be completed within a year. However, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and internal issues, extending the deadline to December 2021. Now, as the country has entered 2025, the work still remains incomplete. According to the City Corporation, only 3.8 kilometres of the lake project has been finished. Read:  Illegal structures removed from Gulshan Lake The entire project includes a variety of features such as lake excavation, construction of roads, drains, and bridges, as well as the development of gardens, boating piers, toilets, fountains, street lights, and benches. Despite the delays, the lake area has become a popular spot for local residents. Salam, a young man who regularly visits the area, said, "After the project was approved, we haven't seen anything as promised. One year’s work has not even been completed in five years.” “We regularly walk and hang out here. We want the lake to be finished so we can enjoy the natural environment," he added. Another resident, Jamal, added, "The work on the Lake has been stopped halfway. It would have benefited us a lot if the work was completed." Engineer Azgar Hossain, an official from Narayanganj City Corporation, said the project is 5.2 kilometres long, of which 3.8 kilometres have been completed. Read more: Launch movement in Kaptai Lake still suspended due to poor navigability He also mentioned that JICA had unexpectedly halted funding, which led to the delay. Hossain assured that the remaining work will be completed once new funding is secured.

The interim government is contemplating on the small but people oriented development projects to accelerate the very low implementation of the annual development project (ADP). According to the Planning Ministry sources, in the last couple of ECNEC meetings the advisers have detailed discussions on this issue to induce a vibe in the economy as it is now more or less at a stagnant situation after the fall of Awami League government on August 5 last year. A top official of the Planning Ministry said that the government has directed the concerned officials to pick up small projects which could be implemented very quickly. Worried about slowdown, govt pushes for speeding up ADP implementation “But these small projects must be beneficial to the local people greatly, this is the intention of the current government,” the official told UNB. The ECNEC meetings chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus made it clear that the government wanted to implement some good projects for the welfare of the people of the country. In this regard, the ECNEC meetings asked the officials concerned to have discussions with the people who will be benefited by these projects. Interim govt seeks to rationalise health sector funding in ADP In this connection, a planning commission official said that directives have been given to talk to the local people first while taking any development in a specific area. In this connection, he mentioned that if any irrigation project has taken for a specific area it should be done through a proper consultation with the local people to find out their traditional irrigation process and their attitude towards the new irrigation system. “If the new irrigation project is designed from the capital city without consulting with the local people then it would not bring any positive results for the users. The local people may not get involved in this project or feel encouraged to use it,” he said. The planning commission official said that forcing any big project through taking assistance from the lending agencies might not end with good maintenance. ADP set to shrink significantly in interim govt’s revised budget “So the government wanted to implement small projects with local consultation to improve ADP implementation rate and induce money to roll the economy,” he said. According to the Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division (IMED), ADP implementation during the July-November period was 17.1% in the last fiscal, 2023-24, and 18.4% in 2022-23. Versus just 12.3% in the current 2024-25 fiscal, of the Tk 278,288.90 crore ADP passed by the AL government in its last budget. After the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 in the face of a student-led uprising, the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus was sworn in on August 8. IMED data shows that ADP spending in the July-November period amounted to Tk34,214.55 crore, compared to Tk46,857.38 crore in the equivalent period of the previous fiscal year. IMED officials cited delays in the review the interim government had initiated into all  ongoing and newly proposed projects, along with increasing delays in the release of funds, as factors contributing to the slowdown in ADP implementation. Additionally, many contractors abandoned projects after the interim government assumed power in early August.    

The Electoral System Reform Commission has recommended expediting the registration of expatriate Bangladeshis as voters using passport database information, enabling them to participate in the next general election through postal balloting. It also proposed creating a technical taskforce to introduce an online voting system alongside postal balloting to facilitate expatriate voting. Led by Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar, the reform commission submitted its report with 150 recommendations in 16 chapters to Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday. Re-election in a constituency if voter turnout is below 40%, Reform Commission recommends The commission emphasised registering all expatriates in the electoral rolls and national identity server swiftly. “Since all expatriate Bangladeshis have passports, the registration process should be completed in a faster time using the information stored in the passport database,” the commission says. The commission recommended that expatriates registered by October 2025 be allowed to vote in the national election through a proposed postal voting system. IT-enabled Postal Voting System To ensure transparency in postal voting, the commission suggested developing two mobile applications—Voter App and Verifier App—for Android and iOS platforms. A backend system for the apps would also be required to support the process securely. It proposed implementing an immutable audit trail for database security and extensive testing before deploying the system in elections. In the initial phase, the system would be trialed in one country with 50 to 100 expatriate voters. It would later expand to five to ten countries, engaging 1,000 to 5,000 voters and eventually to as many countries as possible with over 20,000 participants. EC waiting for final shape of reform proposal: Commissioner Masud The system could also be adapted for absentee voters within the country with minor modifications, the commission noted. Online voting system The commission suggested forming a technical taskforce comprising national and international experts in blockchain, security, and privacy-enhancing technologies to develop an online voting system. “Once the system is built, it should be properly tested to ensure its functionalities, security, and usability,” it said in its report. It also called for alternative solutions for voters without smartphones to ensure inclusivity. Expatriate statistics According to the Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET), over 16 million Bangladeshis have worked abroad from 1976 to 2023. Saudi Arabia hosts the largest share, with 5.77 million, followed by the UAE (2.6 million), Oman (1.88 million), Malaysia (1.46 million), Singapore (938,365), and Qatar (902,451). CA Dr Yunus receives reports of 4 reform commissions   The Election Commission began registering expatriates as voters in 2023. Currently, voter registration is ongoing in six countries: the UAE (May 2023), Italy, the UK and Saudi Arabia (October 2023), Qatar and Kuwait (March 2024), and Malaysia (July 2024).

With divorce rates steadily climbing in Bangladesh, more women are finding themselves in the role of single mothers, facing challenges that test their resilience. From financial struggles to societal stigma, their stories highlight both the hardships and the strength required to rebuild their lives while ensuring a better future for their children. Tamanna Tithi (name changed for privacy), 32, lives in Badda with her six-year-old son. Sharing her story, she said, “No woman chooses divorce willingly. In our society, a woman living alone is looked down upon. After my divorce, I realised how people can turn away so easily. My family is not by my side, but I believe it is better to accept the pain all at once than to stay in a toxic relationship that slowly poisons you.” Sania Mirza’s Family Confirms Her Divorce from Shoaib Malik Despite the isolation, Tamanna has found mental peace and believes self-reliance is the key to navigating life’s ups and downs. For Rehnuma Disha (not her real name), a 34-year-old living in Mirpur, her separation was driven by constant disagreement and mental abuse from her in-laws. “We tried to make the relationship work, but it was unbearable. My parents help with my daughter while I work, but I still face criticism. Not everyone can stand up for themselves, and even when you do, it doesn’t always help,” she explained. Like Tamanna, Rehnuma sees self-sufficiency as essential, but acknowledges the emotional toll of single motherhood. Esha Karim, 35, offers another perspective on the struggles of balancing work and childcare. Actress Mahiya Mahi to get divorce Living in Banshree with her five-year-old daughter, Esha found it increasingly difficult to manage both. “I had to hire help, but my daughter refused to stay with anyone else, crying every time. I’ve sent her to her father’s house for now and visit her when I can. It’s heartbreaking, but I have no other choice,” she said, highlighting the difficult decisions many single mothers must make. Sajia Sabrina (not real name), 36, faced an abrupt breakup due to her husband’s betrayal. Now living in Mohammadpur with her parents and children, she struggles to rebuild her life. “I never worked after marriage, and at my age, finding a job is difficult. I’ve started sewing to earn some income. I teach my children and try to stay positive, but it’s not easy,” she shared. Sajia emphasised the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with an ex-partner for the sake of the children, even after divorce. Rising Divorce Rates Statistics from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) reveal a steady rise in divorce rates. A report published on 31 January 2024 indicated that the rate fluctuated between 0.6% and 1.1% from 2006 to 2021, increasing to 1.4% in 2022, according to the Bangladesh Sample Vital Statistics-2022 report. Expert Insights Tawhidul Haque, a faculty member of Dhaka University’s Institute of Social Welfare and Research, believes the rise in divorce reflects changing societal attitudes. “We shouldn’t judge anyone’s life based on the label of divorce. Women becoming self-reliant is a big factor, as dependency weakens the mind,” he explained. Haque also highlighted the stigma faced by children of divorced parents, urging the state to promote modern thinking and support systems. “It’s important to ensure children are not negatively affected by divorce and to foster a positive attitude towards such realities,” he added. While divorce is never an ideal outcome, it is often a necessary step towards preserving mental health and dignity, experts said. With changing societal attitudes and growing support for single mothers, these women are finding strength in adversity, paving the way for a more inclusive and understanding society, according to the experts.  

Ramrai Dighi, a historic water body in Ranisankail upazila of Thakurgaon district, widely known as Ranisagar, has witnessed a massive influx of migratory birds this winter, drawing  the attention of nature enthusiasts in general from far and wide and ornithologists in particular. The ancient and expansive Ramrai Dighi has become a paradise for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers due to the vibrant presence of numerous colorful bird species. Every winter, thousands of migratory birds from Siberia, Mongolia, and the Tibetan plateau travel thousands of miles south to this serene lake, among other locations in Bangladesh, to escape the harsh weather in their homelands. Few spots can be as picturesque as Ranisagar though. The mesmerising view of the birds and the natural beauty of the water body captivate visitors. Their cheerful chirping has turned the entire area into a haven for birds. A Haven for Migratory Birds The migratory birds, escaping the harsh winter in Siberia and other cold regions, arrived here to find refuge. During the day, they feast in the waters of Ramrai Dighi while at night, they take shelter in nearby water bodies or in the lychee orchards along the lake's banks. At dawn they go back to the lake again. Ramrai Dighi is the second-largest water body in the Barind region, located in Uttargao village, four kilometers away from Ranisankail town. If anyone wants to visit the area, they can get to the lake via a local transport within 15-20 minutes by spending only Tk 10-15. Spanning approximately 42.2 acres, including 18.34 acres of elevated banks and 23.82 acres of water, the lake's north-south length is 900 meters and its east-west width is 400 meters. While its exact history remains unknown, experts estimate the lake to be between 500 and 1,000 years old. Historical and Ecological Significance Once upon a time, Ramrai Dighi served as a vital source of water for the local community. The lake is steeped in folklore and history. Later, it was renamed as Ranisagar in 2002 but is still widely known as Ramrai Dighi. Around 1,200 lychee and other trees have been planted along its perimeter, enhancing its lush greenery and making it a favourite spot for visitors. Migratory birds from the northern Arctic, Europe, Siberia, Mongolia, the foothills of the Himalayas and Tibet flocked to Ramrai Dighi from late December to early January. The avian visitors include white herons, balia, pankouri, doves, sarus, seagulls, wild ducks, wagtails, warblers, snipes, cuckoos and many others. Their presence transforms the lake into a scenic wonder, attracting bird lovers and tourists. The migratory birds remain in the area from morning to evening but at night, they take shelter at the lychee orchards. Bird enthusiasts and tourists flocked to the lake daily, drawn by the constant chirping and vibrant activity of the birds. Most of the birds leave for their native habitats by late March, although some remain year-round A Tourist Attraction in the Making The local administration has taken several initiatives to enhance the aesthetic and recreational appeal of Ramrai Dighi. Migratory birds under threat in Kushtia’s Padma Char

Passengers and riders in Bangladesh are increasingly bypassing app-based ridesharing services, opting instead for on-the-spot bargaining, causing security concerns as the formal system is being neglected, complained users. Ridesharing services, introduced through mobile apps or websites, initially gained popularity due to their speed, affordability and convenience compared to public transportation. Despite the initial success, the sector is now struggling with growing dissatisfaction among both passengers and drivers. Complaints against ridesharing companies have surged, but the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has been unable to act due to the absence of robust regulatory guidelines. Traffic congestion escalates in Narayanganj city due to rules violation Jubair Khan, a resident of Khilgaon, shared his frustrations, “Using apps was once hassle-free and efficient. Now, finding a rider through apps is expensive and difficult. We often have to go to main roads to find rides.” Declining Usage and Non-renewal of Licences While global ridesharing usage is on the rise, Bangladesh has witnessed a sharp decline in bike-based ride-hailing. Of the 15 registered ridesharing companies, only two—Pathao and Uber—have renewed their licences, indicating their continued dominance. Thirteen companies have failed to renew their licences, with some withdrawing from the market altogether. Globally, the ridesharing market grew from $61 billion in 2018 to $218 billion in 2025, with projections to reach $285 billion by 2030. Over 100 million people are expected to use these services within the next three years. In Bangladesh, however, drivers like Shankar have been avoiding app-based platforms. “We no longer use apps frequently as bonuses and discounts have been removed. Serving passengers on the road is easier,” he said. Economic and Operational Challenges As of January 2024, Dhaka had 4.3 million registered bike riders. However, drivers claim unregistered riders outnumber the registered ones, creating a saturated market. Full-time drivers earn between Tk30,000 and Tk50,000 per month, while part-time drivers make Tk12,000 to Tk15,000. Yet, many drivers face financial strain. Mintu Mia, an Uber driver, outlined his daily expenses: earning Tk3,500 from rides, he spends Tk3,154 on Uber commissions, fuel, platform fees, booking fees, meals, and rent, leaving him with just Tk346 in savings. Rising interest payments reflect growing dependence on loans, increasingly from foreign sources Beyond financial struggles, drivers endure physical and environmental risks daily. Proposals for Reform The Dhaka Ridesharing Drivers’ Union recently met the Labour Reform Commission to propose key reforms. According to union president Sajib Hossain, the proposals include amending the current ride-sharing policy, setting a fair fare structure, capping commission rates, eliminating platform and booking fees, and ensuring drivers are not penalised for carrying illegal items on behalf of passengers. Additional measures, such as introducing waiting and cancellation fees and forming a dedicated regulatory commission, were also recommended to protect drivers’ rights and sustain the sector. The Labour Reform Commission has proposed including drivers in the Somota pension scheme, part of the Universal Pension Scheme for low-income individuals. Under this scheme, drivers would pay Tk500 monthly, matched by the government, to secure a pension of Tk1,530 per month after 10 years. Safety Initiatives Ridesharing companies have emphasised the importance of using apps to ensure passenger safety. Apps allow users to track rides, view driver details, and report misconduct. Pathao and Uber launched a joint campaign to enhance safety standards and customer experiences. This initiative includes driver training on safety measures, document verification, and awareness programmes. Ailing VAT collection: NBR wants answers from field level offices Legal Framework The BRTA has approved 12 ridesharing companies under the Ride-sharing Service Guidelines 2017, introduced to legalise and regulate the sector. These include Pathao Limited, Uber Bangladesh Ltd, and others. While app-based ride-hailing services began in Dhaka in 2015, the cabinet approved the “Ride-sharing Service Guideline 2017” in 2019. The BRTA mandates that ride-sharing cars adhere to fare limits set under the Taxicab Service Guidelines 2010, which specify a base fare of Tk85 for the first two kilometres and Tk34 for each subsequent kilometre, with a waiting charge of Tk8.50 every two minutes. Despite these measures, the sector’s future remains uncertain as it struggles to balance passenger convenience, driver welfare, and regulatory oversight, said many users.

Traffic congestion in Narayanganj city is becoming increasingly severe as many drivers, including those of private cars, rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, and human haulers, continue to flout road rules. To avoid the daily gridlocks, some drivers are choosing to travel in the opposite direction creating new traffic jams. In addition, the situation is worsened by illegal vehicles parked along the roads, which are narrowing the streets. This traffic problem has been affecting city residents year-round, with major roads such as Bangabandhu Road, Shayesta Khan Road, Nawab Sirajuddaula Road, and the Dhaka-Narayanganj Old Road experiencing frequent jams. Several factors including ongoing roadwork, illegal parking, hawkers blocking footpaths, and illegal vehicle stands, contribute to the congestion. During a recent visit to the area, it was observed that renovation work is underway along Bangabandhu Road, with piles of gravel, soil, bricks, and stones blocking parts of the road. Govt intensifies efforts to improve Dhaka's traffic management As a result, one lane between Nitaiganj and Chashara is now unusable. At Rail Gate No. 2, traffic from Chashara is also being held up by ongoing construction, causing a queue that stretches back to Digubabur Bazar. Auto-rickshaws and human haulers have been going in the wrong direction from Narayanganj Club towards Rail Gate No. 2, picking up passengers and slowing down the already blocked traffic. Auto-rickshaw drivers said that rather than wait for long periods in traffic, they prefer to drive on the opposite side of the road, believing it will allow them to drop off passengers faster. Siam Ahmed, a government employee, said that the lack of following traffic laws is making the situation worse. He said that illegal parking and hawkers have already made it difficult to navigate the roads. The additional issue of vehicles travelling in the wrong direction is adding to the chaos, and the risk of accidents is increasing. He urged the police and local authorities to take strict action to restore order on roads. A local pedestrian, Rifat, mentioned that vehicles often drive the wrong way near Popular Diagnostic Center, Friends Market in Kalir Bazar, and Rail Gate No. 2, which leads to traffic jams and frequent quarrels between drivers. Delay in Dhaka-Narayanganj Link Road expansion causes severe traffic disruptions Ruhul Amin Sagar, Additional Superintendent of Police (Traffic), said that road renovation projects are causing some of the congestion. He said that renovation work is underway on various roads in the city. Drain renovation work is underway towards Rail Gate No. 2. Almost half of the road is occupied with soil, bricks, stones, and machinery, he added. He also noted that work by DPDC in Chashara has resulted in soil being dumped in the area, further restricting traffic. To address the issue, traffic police are conducting operations with the army, magistrates, and local authorities, issuing fines, making arrests, and taking action against violators. Despite these efforts, many drivers continue to disregard traffic laws. He mentioned that since August last year, many have been ignoring traffic rules and regulations, with cars that were previously prohibited from entering the city now being driven there. However, the officer remains hopeful that once the roadwork is completed, the situation will improve and road order will be restored.