The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is facing an alarming threat as relentless riverbank erosion steadily devours its landmass, displacing communities, destroying infrastructure and shrinking vital forest cover. Spanning the delta region of the Padma, Meghna and Brahmaputra river basins, the Sundarbans is a crucial ecological zone shared between Bangladesh and India. It is home to rich biodiversity, including the endangered Royal Bengal tiger. But continuous erosion is rapidly reshaping the landscape, with islands and coastal land disappearing into the sea. Vanishing Land and Lost Infrastructure Jetties, Forest Department offices and other vital infrastructure are being washed away, forcing officials to abandon their posts. In September last year, the East Sundarbans Division sought assistance from the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) to curb erosion at nine vulnerable locations. Although sand-filled geo bags were placed in front of the Forest Office to mitigate the damage, the measure has largely proven ineffective. According to sources in the Forest Department, the situation has worsened over the years, swallowing entire forested areas along with their trees. The jetty at the Dubla Forest Office, several drinking water ponds, cyclone shelters and freshwater reservoirs at Meherali Char have already been lost to the rising tides. Meanwhile, the old rest house and jetty at Katka have disappeared, and the two-storey Bogi Forest Office building is on the brink of collapse into the river. “The forest land is continuously being destroyed, and many trees have already vanished. The old rest house at Katka has gone into the sea, and numerous areas deeper into the Sundarbans have been submerged,” said Soyebur Rahman Suman, in charge of the Katka Sanctuary Centre, a popular tourist spot in the Sundarbans. Nylon net fencing starts in Sundarbans to prevent tigers entering surrounding localities A Sabur, an officer at Bogi Forest Station, echoed similar concerns. “Our office-cum-barracks are also at risk of being submerged. Staff have been forced to move to alternative shelters to avoid further danger.” Despite efforts to control the damage, the situation has not improved. “The Water Development Board placed sandbags in September and October last year to prevent erosion, but they have not been effective,” added Sabur. Nine Critical Zones Under Threat Forest officials have identified nine key locations that are severely affected by erosion: ·         Kachikhali Sanctuary Centre ·         Katka Sanctuary Centre ·         Chandeshwar Patrol Outpost ·         Jelepalli Dubla Patrol Outpost ·         Bogi Forest Station ·         Jhapsi Patrol Outpost ·         Jongra Patrol Outpost ·         Karamjal Wildlife Breeding Centre ·         Shuarmara Patrol Outpost Rana Deb, Sharankhola Range Officer of the Eastern Sundarbans Division, noted that while some forest areas are eroding, new chars (sandbanks) are forming in other river regions. But this offers little consolation given the immense destruction already suffered by the Forest Department, particularly after Cyclone Remal. Funding Shortages Hindering Protection Efforts Abu Raihan Md. Albunni, Executive Engineer of BWDB in Bagerhat, admitted that financial constraints have hindered further erosion prevention efforts. “Sand-filled geo bags were placed in front of Bogi Forest Station, but due to budget limitations, no action has been taken in other erosion-affected areas,” he said. Sundarbans Day to be observed Friday, still awaits national recognition Divisional Forest Officer of the East Sundarbans Division, Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, expressed grave concern over the worsening crisis, attributing it in part to climate change. “We sent a letter to the Executive Engineer of BWDB in September last year, requesting urgent intervention at nine locations. Although some geo bags were placed in Bogi, they were ineffective in halting the erosion,” he said. Alarming Shrinkage of the Sundarbans A World Bank report, Coping with Climate Change in the Sundarbans: Lessons from Multidisciplinary Studies (2020), presents alarming evidence of the forest's shrinking footprint. The total area of the Sundarbans (including both Bangladesh and India) measured 11,904 sq km between 1904 and 1924. By 1967, it had reduced to 11,663 sq km, and in 2016, it further declined to 11,506 sq km. According to various sources, the Sundarbans is crisscrossed by approximately 450 rivers and canals, stretching about 350 km in total length. Natural tidal activity continuously reshapes these waterways, causing both erosion and deposition. However, the extent of land loss in the last century has far outpaced natural recovery, posing an existential threat to the forest and its inhabitants. Conservation projects paying fruit as Sundarbans witness increase in tiger population Need for Urgent Action The relentless erosion of the Sundarbans demands immediate intervention from policymakers, conservationists and international stakeholders. Without robust mitigation strategies and sustainable erosion control measures, the continued loss of land will exacerbate climate vulnerability, displace more communities, and push the region’s fragile ecosystem further towards collapse.    

While there were initial hopes for the national election by the year-end, leaders of the BNP now feel that there is a deliberate effort to extend the tenure of the interim government and delay the polls, using the need for reforms as a pretext. Speaking to UNB, senior BNP leaders also accused the interim government of deliberately evading a clear election roadmap in spite of their party’s repeated demands. They argued that contradictory statements from the Chief Adviser and several other advisers regarding the election timeline have only deepened their suspicions about the government’s true intentions and its determination to cling to power. Amid these concerns, BNP policymakers, at their last standing committee meeting on Monday decided to intensify street protests to expose what they describe as an "electoral conspiracy" and ramp up pressure on the government to announce a clear election roadmap. As part of this strategy, BNP leaders and activists will stage nationwide rallies and public gatherings throughout April and May. Some standing committee members also proposed holding a massive public rally in Dhaka to set a deadline for the government to declare the election date. A BNP Standing Committee member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said it has become clear to them that the government is intentionally prolonging the election process under the guise of reforms, discussions about a Constituent Assembly election, a Second Republic, and strengthening local government. NCP nothing but a "King’s Party", says BNP’s Bulu He said they think some advisers within the interim government are engaging in underhanded tactics to delay the election. “We also sense that the government is giving undue importance to what the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Jamaat are saying. It doesn't seem like they will easily leave power or hold the election. So, we're now planning to intensify our movement to pressure the government into holding elections by the end of the year,” the BNP leader said. He said some of their policymakers have proposed holding rallies in all divisional cities, including Dhaka, to demand the government set a clear election roadmap and promptly complete the necessary reforms. At the rally in Dhaka, the BNP leader said they suggested that the party issue an ultimatum to the government, demanding a specific roadmap for the election. Another BNP standing committee member said their policymakers are in favour of staying on the streets to thwart any attempts to delay the election and democratic transition. “A strong push must be made to mount pressure on the interim government for holding election. We’ve recently held rallies in various districts to make our stance on the election clear. This trend must continue,” he said. Focus on solving public issues, not just reforms: Tarique to political parties  The BNP leader said most of the party’s policymakers have agreed to work out various programmes to ensure a strong presence of party leaders and activists on the streets from mid-April to May. “We’ll gradually escalate our actions, including marches toward the Chief Adviser’s office and the Election commission,” he said. “We supported the interim government from the very beginning, but over time, our confidence in it has started eroding. The government is losing its neutrality as it backs the student’s party NCP. It is deliberately delaying the election to give NCP time to reorganise. So, we now believe we must return to the streets to restore democracy and the people’s right to vote,” he said. The BNP policymaker also mentioned receiving concerning messages from foreign diplomats about the government’s intentions regarding the election. “We’re preparing to confront a new plot against the country and our party,” he said. As part of this alleged plot, he said some major companies are reportedly supporting Jamaat and NCP by providing significant financial backing. “They are spreading propaganda against the BNP to tarnish our reputation and are trying to keep us out of power. We remain vigilant about this,” he observed. BNP standing committee member Mirza Abbas, speaking at a programme on Wednesday, said the public perception of a plot to delay the election under the pretext of reforms is not baseless. NCP creating chaos to delay national election, alleges BNP leader   “The government can even arrange the election by June or July after completing the reforms by slightly modifying our 31-point proposal. The government has said it will hold the election in December, but I fail to understand the reason behind the unnecessary delay," he said. The BNP leader also criticised some political parties for supporting the delay of the election under the guise of reforms. Contacted, BNP Standing Committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy said their party has been pushing for the restoration of democracy through a credible election for the last 17 years. “We’ve been patient, trusting the interim government, but we won’t stay idle for long. Even if we don’t want to, we may have to take to the streets to ensure the election.” He said there is no need to buy more time for the election in the name of reforms. “Reform is an ongoing process. We want reforms, but elections cannot be delayed for them. Elections must be held as soon as possible. Necessary reforms should be done to organise a free, fair, and acceptable election and the remaining reforms can be carried out by the elected government.” Public perception about ploy to delay election is valid: Mirza Abbas Gayeshwar said the interim government should not treat BNP as an opposition party, pushing it to take to the streets. Said BNP’s main demand over the past 17 years has been a fair election. “There is no reason to deviate from this demand.      

Bangladesh's economic growth has slowed in recent months due to high interest rates, expensive energy supply and political uncertainty, according to trade body leaders and economists. They highlighted that costly funding and inadequate energy supply are hindering business expansion despite the country’s large workforce. Zakir Hossain Nayan, the Convener of the Anti-Discrimination Business Forum at the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), told UNB that the domestic business sector is struggling due to high interest rates and the rising exchange rate of the US dollar. “People have reduced their consumption due to high inflation within their income limitations. As a result, Bangladesh's internal trade suffered severely in July and August last year, though it is now slowly gaining pace,” he said. He explained that banks are facing a liquidity crisis, as the past government and their affiliated businesses misused banking policies to secure large loans. This has left over a dozen banks unable to make new investments, while others remain cautious about injecting fresh funds into businesses. Given these conditions, he said that business growth will remain weak in the second half of 2024. He, however, said that the situation is improving as the government has increased money flow in the banking sector, the dollar crisis has eased, and inflation is trending downward. He also mentioned that the export sector remains resilient despite challenges such as unrest in the garment sector, with export orders increasing by 10–15% in 2025. Second report of committee to reform NBR expected next month, focusing on automation Taskeen Ahmed, President of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), said that GDP growth in the first quarter of the current fiscal year was only 1.8%, while the manufacturing sector grew by just 1.43%. He noted that Bangladesh’s economy continues to face various challenges, even as it prepares to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category in 2026. To address these challenges, he emphasised the need for skill development in the SME sector, long-term access to low-cost credit, free trade agreements to boost exports to the Middle East and South Asia, infrastructure development to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), and reforms in revenue and related policies. Ahmed also urged the government to implement policies to promote exports beyond the readymade garment sector, highlighting the potential of pharmaceuticals, leather goods, agro-processing, semiconductors, light engineering, and information technology. He stressed that a comprehensive 'Smooth Transition Strategy' (STS) is crucial, with a strong role for the private sector. Ensuring low-cost funds is essential to revive business growth, he added. Khandoker Rafiqul Islam, former President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), told UNB that the garment sector has been able to meet export targets in recent months by operating at full capacity. But he warned that sustaining this trend will be difficult if business expansion is stifled by high costs and an unreliable energy supply. He pointed out that the domestic textile sector is struggling due to shortages in working capital and energy supply. 42,000 Bangladeshi expats seek voter registration abroad The latest Bangladesh Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report revealed a 1.1-point decline in February, recording a slower expansion rate of 64.6. The report attributed this drop to weaker expansion in construction and services, although agriculture and manufacturing continued to grow at a faster rate. The PMI, developed by the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and Policy Exchange with support from the UK Government and technical assistance from the Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management (SIPMM), provides timely insights into Bangladesh’s economic health. According to the report: The agriculture sector recorded its fifth consecutive month of expansion, with faster growth in new business, business activity, input costs and order backlogs. Employment contraction slowed. The manufacturing sector posted its sixth consecutive month of expansion, with faster growth in new orders, factory output, input purchases, and supplier deliveries. But new exports, finished goods, imports and employment grew at a slower rate, while order backlogs contracted faster. The construction sector saw its third month of expansion but at a slower pace. New business and construction activity slowed, while input costs rose. Employment returned to growth, and order backlogs contracted at a slower rate. The services sector expanded for the fifth month but at a slower rate. Growth in new business, business activity and employment decelerated. The order backlogs index turned negative, while input costs increased. Only an elected government can drive real economic growth: Abdul Awal Mintoo “Bangladesh's PMI readings indicate sustained expansion for the fifth month, driven by continued export growth and a seasonal uptick in agriculture, while construction and services posted slower expansion,” said M Masrur Reaz, Chairman and CEO of Policy Exchange. He cautioned that business confidence remains weak due to sluggish demand, energy disruptions, and ongoing protests. A sustained recovery, he argued, will depend on improved law and order, political consensus on the election roadmap, and the swift implementation of key reforms.

In an effort to protect the wild animals from entering into the locality, the government has taken a step to install nylon net fencing covering a 60-km area along the boundaries of the Sundarbans, easing the fear of tigers among thousands of villagers living near the forest. Tigers and other wildlife enter into the locality, making it difficult for the villagers to drive the animals away, causing casualties on both sides due to attacks and counterattacks.  Besides, the natural deposition of silt has filled up rivers and canals, forcing the wildlife animals to leave the forest and enter into villages. Similarly, villagers and their livestock frequently enter the Sundarbans. This marks the first instance of fencing being installed in the Bangladeshi portion of the Sundarbans. On the frontline of disaster-preparedness, Koyra must be given the tools to fight According to the sources at the Forest Department, once the fencing is completed, tigers, deer, wild boars and other animals will no longer be able to enter human settlements and similarly, livestock will be prevented from straying into the forest. The fencing will also restrict unauthorized human entry into the Sundarbans. Villagers living near the Sundarbans claimed that tigers often invade their villages, causing sleepless nights due to fear. The announcement of the fencing has begun to ease their anxiety. Assistant Conservators of Forests (ACFs) Deepen Chandra Das of Chandpai Range and Rana Deb of Sharankhola Range highlighted the fencing’s importance in preserving biodiversity and reducing tiger-related fears among villagers. Efforts are also being made to make local communities aware about protecting the fencing. They urged the government to provide financial incentives for volunteer conservation groups such as the Community Patrol Group, Village Tiger Response Team and Dolphin Conservation Team. Dr. Anwarul Islam, CEO of WildTeam and a wildlife conservation expert, stressed that the fencing will prevent tigers from straying into human settlements but will also put pressure on local communities. He emphasised the need to raise awareness among villagers and establish a social security system to protect the fencing. He further pointed out that maintenance of the fencing is crucial. Daily monitoring is required and the Forest Department must take strict action against vandalism, he said. He also recommended offering incentives for forest staff to ensure their dedication to conservation efforts.

Dhaka's mosquito infestation has reached an alarming level, sparking fears of the worst dengue outbreak in years as the monsoon season approaches, despite a hefty Tk 200 crore allocation for mosquito control. Experts warn that the absence of a year-round strategy is exacerbating the crisis, making a swift resolution unlikely. Daily Life Under Siege From homes and offices to schools and mosques, mosquitoes have infiltrated every corner of the capital. The situation is particularly unbearable during Ramadan, disrupting Iftar and Sehri for millions. Shafiqul Islam, a resident of Bashundhara, shared his ordeal: “Mosquitoes swarm before dusk and persist all night. Despite trying various repellents, we can’t escape them. We shut our doors and windows early, yet even the tiniest gap allows them in.” Previously, ward councillors oversaw mosquito control efforts and waste management. However, following the ouster of the then government on August 5, they have gone into hiding. Residents claim this has left a governance vacuum, with an administrative cadre officer now overseeing multiple wards, limiting on-ground monitoring. Low-Lying Areas Hit Hardest Jahangirnagar University: Students struggle as mosquitoes take over The worst-affected areas include Uttara, Dakkhinkhan, Bashundhara, Mirpur, Kamrangirchar, Aminbazar, Mohammadpur, Bosila, Shanir Akhra and Dholaipar. Stagnant water in drains, ponds, and canals has created the perfect breeding ground for Culex mosquitoes. Moinuddin, a resident of Rampura, voiced his frustration: “Every year, mosquitoes make life miserable, but this time, it’s worse. We pay taxes, yet mosquito control services remain ineffective.” Budget Allocation vs. Reality For the 2024-25 fiscal year, the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has allocated Tk 111 crore for mosquito control, with a similar budget from Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). However, many residents argue that the situation is deteriorating rather than improving. They stress the need for year-round interventions, including efficient spraying and enhanced waste management, to curb mosquito breeding. Experts Raise the Alarm Dr. Kabirul Bashar, a zoology professor at Jahangirnagar University, warned that the current mosquito surge had been predicted in a January study. “Our research anticipated a spike in mosquito numbers in February and March, and the evidence is now clear. If mosquito control was maintained throughout the year, the infestation wouldn’t have reached this level,” he said. Dhaka’s mosquito menace spirals out of control; frustration mounts Dr. Bashar revealed alarming figures: mosquito larvae density has soared from 12-17 per dip last year to over 87 this year. Similarly, the density of flying mosquitoes per person per hour has jumped from 25 to over 300. City Corporations’ Response DNCC CEO Abu Sayeed Md. Kamruzzaman insisted that efforts are underway, with regional officials directed to spray pesticides regularly. However, he emphasised that public cooperation is crucial in eliminating breeding grounds. Brigadier General Imrul Kayes Chowdhury, DNCC’s Chief Health Officer, pointed out that mosquito control requires more than just pesticide spraying. “Stagnant water in drains, ponds, sewers, and canals is a major contributor to the rising mosquito population,” he noted. He added that technical teams and task forces have been formed to assess pesticide effectiveness and recommend improvements. DSCC CEO Dr. Md. Zillur Rahman stated, “We are consistently spraying repellents in all wards. With mosquito numbers peaking during monsoon, we are intensifying proactive measures.” Dr. Nishat Parveen, DSCC’s Chief Health Officer, reiterated that pre-monsoon efforts are being ramped up to contain mosquito infestations. Time for Decisive Action Adviser Hassan Ariff calls for expert involvement in mosquito control Dhaka is at a breaking point. Experts caution that piecemeal solutions are no longer sufficient. Unless authorities implement advanced mosquito control strategies and deploy potent pesticides, a severe public health disaster is imminent. With dengue season fast approaching, only immediate, well-coordinated action can prevent the crisis from spiralling out of control.

The Advisory Committee on Reforms to the National Board of Revenue (NBR) is likely to submit its second interim report next month, according to a member of the committee. “This time the report will be on the automation system of the NBR, we have almost finished the report, hopefully we will be able to submit it next month,” the member told UNB, on condition of anonymity.  He said that in this report the Committee will give a proposal to fully automate the NBR's systems using technology in the next 4-5 years. Next budget to see cuts in tax waiver: NBR Chairman “We will give some philosophy and the process to automate the NBR,” he said. The Reform committee, formed on October 9, 2024, comprises two former NBR chairmen—Muhammad Abdul Mazid and Dr. Nasiruddin Ahmed—and three former NBR members: M Delowar Hossain, Farid Uddin, and Aminur Rahman.  The Committee member mentioned that over the years there was some automation in the NBR, but it was done in a piecemeal manner. “It was not done in a total manner, we will point out the specific areas where the automation is needed and we will propose the way for this automation,” he said. He said that last time the proposal was on separation and the next one will be on automation. “By these two proposals, we will be able to complete 60 percent of the proposal on reform,” he added. He said that the rest of the reform will be done on the laws of income tax, customs and VAT. “For that we will go line by line of the laws, we will do hair-splitting analysis,” he said. Electronic VAT machines made mandatory at highway restaurants to halt cheating: NBR The Committee member also said that through the analysis they will pinpoint the inevitable reform in these laws. “Later, we will summarize those and submit it to the concerned ministry,” he said. The committee in its first report highlights that Bangladesh’s current tax policy deviates significantly from international best practices, which typically feature low rates, minimal exemptions, a broad base, progressive income tax structures, and value-based taxation. These deviations are seen as impediments to investment, revenue growth, and the establishment of economic and social justice. A central recommendation of the report is to address the inefficiencies arising from the dual role of the Secretary of the Internal Resources Division (IRD) and the NBR Chairman, both positions currently held by the same individual. This overlap is identified as a significant barrier to effective governance within the NBR. To mitigate this, the committee proposes the establishment of an independent “Revenue Commission” responsible for policy development, while the restructured NBR would focus on policy implementation and revenue collection. The committee emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement in the reform process. It has reached out to private sector associations, including the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), and the International Chamber of Commerce Bangladesh (ICCB), seeking their proposals to guide its reform efforts. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the reforms are comprehensive and considerate of various perspectives. Recognizing the complexity of the proposed reforms, the committee acknowledges that while the recommendations are implementable, they cannot be executed overnight. It emphasizes the need for a phased approach, building consensus among all stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the reforms. These recommendations come at a time when the NBR is facing significant challenges in revenue collection. In the first six months of the fiscal year 2024-25, the NBR reported a revenue collection deficit of approximately Tk 57,891 crore, with shortfalls across income tax, import duty, and VAT sectors. This deficit underscores the urgency for systemic reforms to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the tax administration. The Advisory Committee’s interim first report sets the stage for a transformative overhaul of Bangladesh’s tax system. By addressing structural inefficiencies, engaging stakeholders, and proposing actionable reforms, the committee aims to create a more equitable and efficient tax administration that supports the country’s economic growth and social justice objectives. Meanwhile, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has outlined several conditions for the National Board of Revenue (NBR) in Bangladesh to enhance revenue collection and improve fiscal stability. These are included: Restructuring Personal Income Tax, Reducing Tax Exemptions, Implementing a Uniform VAT Rate, Separating Tax Policy and Administration, Increasing the Tax-to-GDP Ratio and Assessing Tax Expenditures. The IMF suggests increasing the tax-free income threshold from Tk 3.5 lakh to Tk 5 lakh and eliminating the 5% tax slab. This adjustment aims to simplify the tax structure and promote fairness. To broaden the tax base, the IMF recommends a thorough evaluation of existing tax exemptions and the elimination of less effective ones. This measure seeks to enhance revenue by minimizing unnecessary concessions. The IMF advocates for a standardized 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) across all sectors, replacing the current system of varying rates. This uniformity is intended to simplify compliance and boost revenue. Structural reforms, such as dividing tax policy formulation from tax administration, have been recommended to improve efficiency within the NBR. This separation is expected to enhance policy implementation and revenue collection. The IMF has set a target to raise Bangladesh’s tax-to-GDP ratio by 0.6% in the current fiscal year, emphasizing the need for enhanced revenue mobilization to support economic growth and stability. The NBR is encouraged to assess tax expenditures, including rebates and exemptions, to identify areas for rationalization. This assessment aims to streamline tax incentives and improve fiscal efficiency.  These conditions are part of the IMF’s broader support program to strengthen Bangladesh’s fiscal framework and promote sustainable economic development.  

A surge in sexual violence has gripped Bangladesh, raising widespread concern and deepening fears over public safety, experts said. They said daily reports detail harrowing rape incidents, with victims spanning all ages, from toddlers to the elderly. “This grim reality paints a picture of a society in profound crisis,” said a senior citizen wishing anonymity. He said the sheer volume of cases, documented in recent police reports and human rights data, is alarming. In Chittagong, a 52-year-old man was apprehended for the alleged rape of a 10-year-old girl. In Dhaka, a 13-year-old victim was admitted to the One-Stop Crisis Centre at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) following a brutal assault. The catalogue of horrors continues: a father accused of raping his own daughter, a pregnant woman gang-raped in Keraniganj, and a stepfather in Narayanganj arrested for filming and attempting to rape a teenage girl. The statistics paint a stark picture. According to police headquarters data, the cases of violence against women and children surged by 19.5% in just one month, from December to January. Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), a human rights organisation, reported 250 rapes in the first six months of 2024 alone, with 14 women murdered after being raped and three taking their own lives. 10-km tailback on Dhaka-Ctg highway as students block road protesting rape The perpetrators represent a disturbing cross-section of society, including neighbours, relatives, teachers, and even family members, highlighting a profound breakdown of trust and safety within communities. One particularly harrowing case saw an 8-year-old girl allegedly raped by her uncle-in-law while visiting her sister, with her brother-in-law implicated as an accomplice. The public outcry has been immense. Opposition parties, such as the BNP, have condemned the escalating violence, attributing it to a failing administration. "Exemplary punishment must be meted out to the perpetrators," stated BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, emphasising the need for a robust and effective law enforcement system. Student groups have also taken to the streets, organising protests and human chains to demand justice and greater protection for women. In response, the police have launched a special hotline to address cases of domestic violence, sexual harassment, and rape. Assistant Inspector General Enamul Haque Sagar confirmed that the hotline, available 24/7, will ensure swift action against offenders. The police have also reiterated their "zero tolerance" policy towards violence against women and children, pledging to pursue strict legal action. Experts, however, argue that a multifaceted approach is required to tackle the root causes of this crisis. Rizvi blames govt inaction for rise in rape and violence against women Associate Professor Touhidul Haque, a social crime expert from Dhaka University, identified the societal stigma surrounding rape as a major obstacle to justice. "People think it brings shame to the victim and their family," he explained, leading many victims to remain silent. He also highlighted the lengthy and complex legal processes as a deterrent to reporting crimes. Lawyer Sirajul Karim echoed this sentiment, calling for swift punishment and a collective societal boycott of perpetrators. "The lengthy process of punishment for any crime is one of the reasons for the organisation of such crimes," he said. "Besides, the current instability in law and order is also somewhat responsible." Both experts emphasised the need for stronger enforcement of existing laws and a shift in societal attitudes. They advocate for widespread public awareness campaigns to challenge the culture of silence and impunity that enables these crimes. They said the situation in Bangladesh underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the immediate crisis and the underlying social and legal factors contributing to the surge in rape cases. Magura child rape: Prime accused put on 7-day remand in midnight hearing  Only through a combination of swift justice, robust law enforcement, and a fundamental shift in societal attitudes can the nation hope to stem this tide of violence and restore a sense of safety for its women and children, they said.

Koyra, on the southern edge of Bangladesh, is one of the five upazilas of Khulna district, and is actually the second-largest upazila in the country. Yet it is grappling with an insufficient number of cyclone shelters in relation to what is needed. It has only 117 centres to accommodate more than 3 lakh people during any natural disaster. During disasters, residents are forced to take shelter in overcrowded rooms without adequate food, water, or medical facilities. GK Irrigation Project revived, bringing relief to Kushtia and Chuadanga farmers Moreover, there are no separate toilet facilities for men and women, making the situation particularly difficult for pregnant women, adolescents, and menstruating individuals. On the occasion of Disaster Preparedness Day on March 10, affected residents demanded that women and child-friendly cyclone shelters be constructed to address these issues. A Coastal Region in Constant Fear Koyra, a coastal upazila in southwestern Bangladesh bordering the Sundarbans, consists of 131 villages across seven unions and is surrounded by the Kapotaksha, Shakbaria, Shibsa, and Aarpangashia rivers, and is making it highly prone to tidal surges and flooding. Every year, tidal surges during full moons and new moons cause embankments to break, submerging villages. As a result, residents must seek shelter in cyclone centres, which remain their only refuge during storms. Though several deadly cyclones like Sidr, Aila, Amphan, Yaas, and Remal crossed off the country, the fear of natural disasters still haunts the people of the upazila. However, the lack of adequate cyclone shelters continues to put lives at risk. Insufficient Shelters & Growing Demands According to the Upazila Project Implementation Office, there are only 98 cyclone shelters in educational institutions and 19 more under the Disaster Management and Relief Ministry and the Fael Khair Program under Islamic Development Bank. Mizanur Rahman, 50, a resident of Jorshing village under the upazila, said, "Every year, we fight to survive natural disasters. We urgently need more cyclone shelters to ensure our safety during storms." Murshida Akhter, a women’s leader from Koyra-2 village, said, "The existing shelters are not women and children-friendly. Pregnant women, adolescents, and menstruating women suffer the most. Women-friendly cyclone shelters have now become a pressing demand." Selina Akhter Laily, a member of Koyra Sadar Union Parishad, emphasised the need for "separate toilet facilities for women in every shelter." 42,000 Bangladeshi expats seek voter registration abroad Nirapad Munda, coordinator of the Upazila Climate Council, addressed that six out of seven unions in Koyra—particularly those near the Kapotaksha and Shakbaria rivers—are highly vulnerable. More cyclone shelters are urgently needed. Officials stay abreast, yet hesitant Sheikh Nazmul Huda, assistant project coordinator of NGO Jagrata Juba Shangha (JJS) at the upazila, said that committees are being reactivated to ensure proper maintenance of cyclone shelters in Koyra Sadar, Dakshin and Uttar Bedkashi unions, with volunteers and CPP members receiving disaster preparedness training. Upazila Project Implementation Officer Md. Mamunur Rashid admitted that due to poor planning and management, residents remain fearful of cyclones and tidal surges, with more cyclone shelters urgently needed to ensure their safety. Latest 'HOBEKI?' graffiti sparks intrigue in Chattogram’s CRB area Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ruli Biswas said that the government was informed about the need for additional cyclone shelters in her upazila. Steps are being taken to construct more shelters under government supervision.

Farmers in Kushtia and Chuadanga districts, who have long struggled with water shortages during the crucial farming seasons, are now witnessing a significant improvement in their agricultural prospects, thanks to the operational revival of the Ganges-Kabadak (GK) Irrigation Project. For years, inadequate irrigation has hampered crop production, leaving farmers in these regions at the mercy of unpredictable water sources. 42,000 Bangladeshi expats seek voter registration abroad But with the start of the irrigation season this year, the project promises relief, providing irrigation water to over 11,000 hectares of land in Kushtia alone. The neighbouring Chuadanga district is also set to benefit, as the revived system promises a steady water supply. A Boon for Farmers The early water supply this season is expected to significantly reduce the costs associated with farming. Farmers expect saving between Tk 3,000 and Tk 4,000 per bigha in cultivation expenses during the Boro season, owing to the improved water availability. Agricultural experts said that timely water access will lead to considerable reductions in irrigation costs and help maintain crop health throughout the season. According to local farmers and officials from the Department of Agricultural Extension, the availability of water at the right time will ensure that farmers’ efforts to cultivate crops are not in vain. “This early water supply is a blessing for us,” said Akkas Ali, a farmer from Shimulia village in Kushtia Sadar Upazila. “We had already planted our seedlings, not expecting irrigation, but now, we see hope in the form of this water.” The positive impact is not limited to those directly connected to the canals. Even farmers whose fields lie outside the immediate reach of the canals are benefiting from the indirect advantages, such as improved groundwater levels, which had suffered due to previous years of drought and failed irrigation systems. Solving Groundwater Woes In recent seasons, groundwater levels in Kushtia and Chuadanga had dwindled, making water extraction through shallow pumps difficult. However, with the canals now filling up, this issue is expected to be alleviated. Sufi Md Rafiquzzaman, Deputy Director of the Kushtia Department of Agricultural Extension, highlighted that the revival of the GK project would not only benefit Boro rice cultivation but also help with other crops, including Aus paddy. Farmers cultivating Aus paddy, in particular, stand to gain from the improved water availability. Seedbeds for Aus paddy are expected to be prepared after March 15, with transplantation beginning 20 to 25 days later. This will provide much-needed support for the local economy, as the region gears up for its Boro rice cultivation, with a target of 36,464 hectares in Kushtia. As of now, 35,996 hectares have been successfully cultivated. Challenges and Solutions Despite the optimism surrounding the project’s revival, challenges remain. The pumps, originally installed in 2009 by a Japanese company, have faced recurring issues, with two pumps becoming inoperable last year. Currently, only one of the three pumps is functional, supplying water at a rate of 1,300 cusecs per second. A second pump is expected to be operational by the end of the month, but a third pump remains irreparable. Efforts to repair and replace parts of the pumps are ongoing, with Japanese engineers inspecting the equipment and replacement parts already arriving. The Padma River’s water level, which is currently 4.40 meters, must also remain above 4.20 meters for the system to function effectively. If the water level falls below this threshold, the water supply to the agricultural fields will need to be halted. Latest 'HOBEKI?' graffiti sparks intrigue in Chattogram’s CRB area Future Prospects Looking forward, significant investments are being made to modernise the GK Irrigation Project. Rashidur Rahman, Executive Engineer of the Kushtia Water Development Board, revealed plans for a Tk 1,400 crore project aimed at renovating the GK pump house. The proposed upgrades include the installation of two large and five small pumps, as well as extensive canal renovations and tree planting along the canals. Once the upgrade is completed, the system will be able to maintain irrigation supplies even if the Padma River’s water level drops by 3 centimetres, a considerable improvement over the current situation. History  The GK Irrigation Project, which began in 1959, has a long and storied history of providing water for the irrigation of vast agricultural lands. Initially designed to irrigate 197,500 hectares, the project’s scope has shrunk over the years due to reduced pump capacity. With the restoration and expansion of the system, the project is now able to supply water to over 190 kilometres of main canals and 467 kilometres of branch canals across four districts. When all three pumps are operational, the project will be able to provide 3,900 cusecs of water per second, ensuring that farmers in Kushtia and Chuadanga have reliable access to water, essential for sustaining their livelihoods. Eid shopping in Faridpur starts picking up As the GK project resumes its critical role in supporting the agricultural community, farmers in Kushtia and Chuadanga can look forward to a more prosperous and secure farming season, experts said. With continued support, they said, both technical and financial, the long-term prospects for these districts appear bright, promising an era of improved agricultural productivity and resilience.

Around 42,000 Bangladeshi expatriates from seven countries have applied for voter registration through Bangladeshi missions over the past one and a half years. According to the latest data from the Election Commission Secretariat, Bangladeshi mission offices abroad have collected the biometrics of some 20,000 applicants. So far, 11,500 national identity (NID) cards have been printed, with 9,500 already dispatched to the respective missions following the completion of the registration process. Besides, around 4,000 applications were rejected on various grounds, while the remaining applications are at different stages of processing. The Election Commission launched its expatriate voter registration and NID services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in July 2023, Italy in February 2024, Kuwait and Qatar in May 2024, the United Kingdom (UK) in June 2024, and Saudi Arabia and Malaysia in July 2024. Now the services are available at 11 Bangladeshi missions across these seven countries, but the commission plans to expand voter and NID registration services to 40 countries to accommodate the Bangladeshi diaspora worldwide. EC invites applications from new parties for registration   As part of this expansion, the services will be introduced in Australia and Canada in April next. In January last, the Electoral System Reform Commission in its report also 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. The reform 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 way 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. Commission wants to reach a consensus shortly to formulate 'National Charter’: Ali Riaz  “Some 42,000 expatriates applied from seven foreign countries. The EC has so far approved 18,000 applications and rejected 4,000 applications. The remaining applications are now pending in different stages of the voter registration,” said Md Abdul Momin Sarkar, Director (Registration and Expatriates) at the EC’s National Identity Registration Cell. As of March 03, 2025, some 11,500 smart NID cards were printed and 9,500 smart cards have already been sent to the mission offices in the seven countries for the distribution among the expatriates, he said. Besides, some 20,000 other expatriate Bangladeshis were registered as voters taking the services from one-stop services desk of EC expatriate cell in Bangladesh in the last two years, said the EC official. Asked as to why so few expatriates are interested to be registered as voters, he said millions of expatriates are now voters as most of the expatriates go abroad after getting voters and many other expatriates became voters when they returned to Bangladesh on different occasions, he said. the slow disposal of their applications, the EC officials said no EC’s staff is posted in the 11 Bangladeshi missions for this purpose and the officials of the missions do this task as their additional job.According to a separate statistics prepared a few days ago by the EC Secretariat, a total of 34,040 applications were received from the seven countries. The highest 11,233 applications were received from UAE, while 7,438 from the UK, 5,817 from Italy, 3,362 from Kuwait, 2,934 from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), 2,417 from Qatar and 839 from Malaysia. There is no specific statistics over how many expatriate Bangladeshis are exactly now in the foreign lands now as the EC received different statistics about it from the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) and the Foreign Ministry. Making Expat Voters: What does Reform Commission say? According to the statistics of BMET, a total of 1,60,75,487 Bangladeshi workers went abroad from 1976 to 2023. Among them, the highest 57,78,634 in Saudi Arabia, 26,02,026 in UAE, 6,89,692 in Kuwait, 18,84,445 in Oman, 9,02,451 in Qatar, 4,10,485 in Bahrain, 2,71,261 in Lebanon, 2,19,005 in Jordan, 1,23,037 in Libya, 12,476 in Sudan, 14,59,000 in Malaysia, 9,38,365 in Singapore, 52,774 in South Korea, 21,576 in UK, 80,646 in Italy, 3,707 in Japan, 23,158 in Egypt, 78,366 in Brunei, 78,390 in Mauritius, 75,909 in Iraq, 3,27,348 in other countries.