United News of Bangladesh

The sun rises over the capital’s seven historic colleges, casting long shadows across empty classrooms and silent corridors. Soon, they are meant to combine their resources to form the Dhaka Central University (DCU), a dream wrought from years of student protests. Yet the air is thick with uncertainty. The ordinance that would breathe life into the university is yet to be issued, debates flare over the role of BCS Education Cadre teachers, and structural concerns for female students echo through the deserted halls. The fate of the revered higher secondary programs hangs by a thread. DCU’s story is yet to unfold, a drama of ambition, conflict, and hope waiting to ignite - that may yet be left in the lurch. Journey to a New University The seven colleges—Dhaka College, Eden Mohila College, Govt. Shaheed Suhrawardy College, Kabi Nazrul Govt. College, Begum Badrunnesa Govt. Mohila College, Mirpur Govt. Bangla College, and Govt. Titumir College—were brought under Dhaka University (DU) in February 2017 after decades under the National University system. Nearly 200,000 students study in these colleges. Claiming academic discrimination and delayed sessions under DU, students renewed their longstanding demand for a separate university during the 2024 student movement. Following the success of that movement, that seemingly opened the doors for various groups to realise their demands through street protests, the seven colleges' own movement gained momentum. In response, the Education Ministry formed a four-member expert committee under the University Grants Commission (UGC) to design a structural framework for the colleges. Following student agitation and clashes with DU students on January 27, steps were initiated to formally detach the colleges from DU. The UGC proposed an interim structure under which a principal-level administrator, supervised by a UGC member, would run the institution until a full university system was set. A decade on, Uttara lake development still stuck in limbo The name Dhaka Central University was finalized after consultations. On May 18, 2025, retired Dhaka College principal Prof. A.K.M. Ilias was appointed as interim administrator for two years. Admission notices followed in July, and results for the first undergraduate batch were released on August 26. Around 72,000 students applied for 11,150 seats across Science, Arts & Social Sciences. A draft ordinance, prepared by a committee led by Prof. Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan—was released on September 24, seeking feedback from teachers, students, and other stakeholders. More than 6,000 responses poured in, sparking heated debate and divisions. On November 18, the Education Ministry said it had decided in principle to establish DCU, claiming the move would ensure quality education, timely exams, fast results, and improved administration. Born into Session Jams  Despite completing admissions for the 2024–25 academic year and announcing that classes would begin on November 23, no classes commenced. Most universities have already been in session for months, and DU has finished 2 units admission tests for the next academic year.Consequently, DCU’s first batch has suffered what amounts to a one-year session delay, even without attending a single class.  On November 30, students blocked the Shahbagh intersection demanding immediate commencement of classes after another postponed start date passed. Earlier, the ministry had extended the admission deadline and rescheduled classes to November 30, but no progress followed. Academic Schools and Growing Controversy The draft ordinance divides the colleges into four academic schools: School of Arts & Humanities at Govt. Bangla College(Journalism, Economics, Development Studies, Film Studies, International Politics) School of Science at Dhaka College, Eden Mohila College, Badrunnesa College(Biochemistry, Data Science, Zoology, Physics, Psychology, etc.) School of Business Studies at Titumir College(Accounting, HRM, Marketing, Banking & Insurance, Hospitality) School of Law & Justice at Kabi Nazrul College and Shaheed Suhrawardy College A segment of students reject the hybrid, multi-campus schooling system, fearing it will diminish their college identity and autonomy. Dhaka College alumni have demanded full cancellation of the draft to preserve institutional independence. Bangladesh’s banking sector sees surge in small deposits as ultra-rich exit post-changeover The ordinance proposes a hybrid teaching model, with 35–40% instruction online but all exams in person. University activities would run from 1pm to 7pm on existing college campuses. Students’ concerns over autonomy Female students from Eden Mohila College and Begum Badrunnesa College argue that the proposed schooling threatens the purpose of women-only institutions. On December 2, Eden students held a press conference demanding the college remain exclusively for women. The next day, students blocked roads and marched toward Dhaka College, joined by faculty members. Even now, a segment of students has yet to applaud the initiative to convert the seven colleges into a university. Rudro Sheikh, a fourth-year student of the Department of Philosophy at Dhaka College, told UNB, “The proposal is not fully aligned with reality. Without proper infrastructure, research facilities, and permanent faculty, university status adds value in name only, not in education quality. The priority should be maintaining stability and transparency in existing colleges rather than expanding a name without ensuring quality.” Teachers’ Alarm Over Career Security Teachers remain deeply concerned. Under the draft, BCS General Education Cadre members are not considered DCU faculty and cannot conduct first-year classes or exams, raising fears that around 1,500 teaching posts, including 1,100 permanent—may lose status or be abolished. Faculty members argue that this threatens their promotions and fundamental rights. Tensions escalated on October 14 when teachers and students clashed at Dhaka College. On December 2, the “Seven Colleges' Identity Protection Committee” demanded cancellation of the hybrid system and insisted on permanent inclusion of BCS cadre members in all academic and administrative roles. They warned of possible indefinite strikes if the ordinance proceeds. HSC Students Enter the Debate Five of the seven colleges— Dhaka College, Shaheed Suhrawardy, Badrunnesa, Kabi Nazrul, and Bangla College—run higher secondary programs. Students from these programs fear DCU will eventually eliminate HSC sections, despite the draft ordinance stating they would remain. They also fear that the proposed DCU structure threatens college autonomy. On December 1, Dhaka College HSC students blocked Science Lab and New Market intersections demanding the ordinance be withdrawn and college autonomy preserved. Ordinance Deadline Looms On October 15, the ministry called the ordinance’s finalization “time-sensitive” and urged responsible public engagement. But student frustration has intensified. On December 3, students blocked roads in front of Dhaka College and issued an ultimatum: the ordinance must be released by December 6. Failing that, they vowed to begin a continuous sit-in in front of the Education Building from December 7. Interim administrator Prof. A K M Elias said, “The Ministry of Education is closely monitoring the situation, and we hope the issues will be resolved very soon.” Dhaka to get state-of-the-art special needs school UGC member Prof. Tanzim Uddin Khan, said to UNB, “We do not have the authority to make comments regarding the seven colleges. According to our terms of conditions, we have completed the responsibilities assigned to us.” He added that they no longer have any role in this matter; it is now entirely under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education. For now, Dhaka Central University remains suspended between aspiration and deadlock, a project weighed down by mistrust, administrative vacuum, and unresolved questions of identity, autonomy, and inclusion.

Dhaka may witness a shift in its crime patterns in the coming weeks ahead of the national election as the intelligence agencies are apprehending a rise in acts of sabotage, arson attacks and politically-driven violence. In recent weeks, parts of the capital have experienced scattered incidents of crude bomb explosions, arson on vehicles and attempts to spread fear which the law enforcers see as early indicators of pre-election unrest. Additional Commissioner of DMP’s Detective Branch (DB) Shafiqul Islam said political groups which have been facing restrictions on activities may try to carry out bomb and arson attacks in Dhaka ahead of the polls to create an environment of fear. Read more: Awami League using looted money for acts of sabotage: Rizvi He said the government’s main mandate is to hold a free, fair and acceptable election and attempts may be made to derail or discredit that process. Intelligence Monitoring Strengthened The DB chief said several people linked to the recent arson and crude bomb blast incidents have been arrested who have given important clues about ongoing sabotage plans. “Interrogations have revealed the names of several instigators. They are being brought under the ambit of law,” he added. To prevent similar attacks, DB has strengthened surveillance through CCTV networks, human intelligence, electronic intelligence and coordinated field operations across the capital. Social Media Under Watch With the election approaching fast, law enforcers expect a spike in disinformation, manipulated videos and fabricated content on social media. Police submits chargesheets in 106 cases linked to July 2024 uprising Shafiqul Islam said a 24/7 monitoring committee made up of representatives from Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), National Security Intelligence (NSI) and other agencies is working to detect and address harmful content in real time. Any adverse material is being handled immediately, he said. Petty Crimes Stable According to DB, petty crimes such as theft and mugging remain generally under control in Dhaka. Shafiqul Islam said a few recent killings were linked to internal disputes among underworld groups. He stressed that these incidents do not reflect the city’s wider homicide trend and intelligence assessments show no major rise in petty crimes. Another senior official at DMP headquarters preferring not to be named said communal incitement and rumor campaigns may increase before the polls. He said political rallies may also carry a higher risk of clashes, prompting agencies to increase intelligence deployment before each event. Why Acts of Sabotage Rise Intelligence officials say targeted violence often rises before elections as political tension increases. Arson attacks on busy routes are often planned to cause maximum public fear. Suspect in Pallabi Jubo Dal leader murder dies after arrest Crude bombs are also used to create pressure and send political signals without large-scale damage, the DMP official said. He said sudden confrontations may escalate tensions and disrupt the electoral environment while propaganda campaigns on social media may attempt to mislead voters. On preparedness, he said law enforcement agencies have already intensified preventive steps. These include increased patrols on major transport routes, deployment of more plainclothes intelligence officers in politically sensitive zones, active automated systems for cyber monitoring and focused surveillance in trouble-prone areas. DB officials said enhanced surveillance, quick arrests and coordinated intelligence actions are expected to keep the overall situation under control. Read more: Saboteurs to be declared ‘Unwanted’ in Dhaka: DMP Commissioner 

Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh Thitiporn Chirasawadi has said they envision the next few years as a transformative period where bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Thailand graduates from a traditional trading partnership to a strategic economic engagement. "Building on the momentum of our 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties celebrated recently, our primary goal is to initiate and finalize the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations as soon as possible," she told UNB in an interview on Wednesday. For the FTA, a Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed in April 2024. The Ambassador said this agreement will be pivotal in dismantling tariff barriers and catalyzing bilateral trade beyond the current volume of approximately USD 1.2 billion. "Furthermore, we see Bangladesh not just as a market, but as a key connectivity hub linking South and Southeast Asia," said the Thai Envoy who presented her credentials last month. With Thailand's "Look West" policy synergizing with Bangladesh's"Look East" policy, Ambassador Chirasawadi said they anticipate a significant increase in Thai investment in Bangladesh's Export Processing Zones (EPZs), particularly in agro-processing and logistics. The evolution of the Bangladesh-Thailand relations will be defined by this shift towards deeper economic integration and physical connectivity, fostering a resilient partnership that supports Bangladesh's graduation from LDC status in next year, she said. Steadfast Regardless of Political Cycles As a close friend and partner, the Ambassador said they trust in the desire of the Bangladeshi people and their institutions to navigate this period. "Our commitment to the Thailand-Bangladesh partnership remains steadfast regardless of political cycles," said the Ambassador. She said they are confident that a stable and prosperous Bangladesh will continue to play its indispensable role in the region, driving the momentum of South Asia-Southeast Asia connectivity that benefits all our citizens. BIMSTEC & Bangladesh Responding to a question, Ambassador Chirasawadi said Thailand fully supports Bangladesh's chairmanship and is committed to ensuring a seamlesscontinuity of the "PRO BIMSTEC" agenda-Prosperous, Resilient, and Open, as outlined in the BIMSTEC Bangkok Vision 2030 during the chairmanship of Thailand. "We will work closely with Dhaka to fast-track the conclusion of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area negotiations, providing thetechnical support and diplomatic backing needed to build consensus among member states," she said. The Ambassador said their shared goal is to transform the Bay of Bengal into a thriving economic corridor. Specifically on connectivity, the envoy said, Thailand will coordinate with Bangladesh to accelerate the implementation of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity. "We view Bangladesh as the vital bridge between South and Southeast Asia," said Ambassador Chirasawadi. Therefore, she added, Thailand will actively participate in working groups to push forward the Trilateral Highway's extension and its linkage to Bangladesh, ensuring that physical infrastructure is matched by soft infrastructure like cross-border motorvehicle agreements. "More importantly, I am of the view that people-to-people connection has to be the crucial part of the regional connectivity," the envoy said. Potential Areas for Joint Initiatives The Ambassador said both Bangladesh and Thailand are maritime states with shared vulnerabilities to climate change, making the Blue Economy one of significant areas of cooperation. "We see immense potential in operationalizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU} between the Port Authority of Thailand (Ranong Port) and the Chittagong Port Authority, signed in December 2021," she said while responding to a question. Such new maritime route can significantly shorten maritime transport time from the current 12-15 days to just 3-4 days, which can largely help save fuel and maritime environment, Ambassador Chirasawadi said. This collaboration can expand into sustainable port management, green logistics, and coastal resource conservation, ensuring our maritime activities drive economic growth without compromising marine ecosystems, she said. Additionally, she said, Thailand is eager to share expertise through our Bio-Circular-Green (BCG} Economy model, which promotes sustainability in agriculture and industry. "We can launch joint initiativesin climate-smart agriculture and disaster risk reduction, leveraging Thailand's experience in sustainable development. Furthermore, we can co-develop solutions for renewable energy and sustainable fisheries that directly benefit our coastal communities," Ambassador Chirasawadi said. Promising Agenda Responding to a question, the Ambassador said the most promising immediate agenda is the establishment of a direct coastal shipping route between Ranong Port and Chittagong Port. Once fully operational, she said, this route will reduce maritime transport time from the current 12-15 days to just 3-4 days, significantly lowering logistics costs and enhancing the competitiveness of products from both nations. This initiative alone has the potential to create bilateral trade dynamics, making Thailand a more accessible source of raw materials for Bangladesh's industries, Ambassador Chirasawadi said. "Furthermore, we see high-potential opportunities in food processing and the Halal industry," she said. Thailand's expertise in food technology combined with Bangladesh's vast domestic market offers a lucrative landscape for joint ventures, the Thai Ambassador said. Additionally, she said, they are keen to expand cooperation in the energy sector and medical tourism. "We also would like to thank Bangladeshi people for trusting Thailand's medical services," she said, adding that they look forward to doing more to serve the growing demand in this field. People-to-People Relations The Royal Thai Embassy aims to support and expand their medical tourism, edu-tourism, as well as scholarship programs to deepen mutual understanding. At present, Ambassador Chirasawadi said one particularly interesting initiative is the Thai Food Promotion Project in Bangladesh, implemented under the policy of "Thai Kitchen to the World". This initiative, she said, is believed to help promote Thai cuisine abroad and enhance Thailand's agricultural and food innovation by showcasing local Thai strengths to the international community-from local to global. The Embassy seeks to foster stronger relations with Bangladesh by using food diplomacy to helps strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries together. "Moreover, we aim to institutionalize regular cultural exchanges that go beyond annual festivals. We are exploring partnerships b e t w e e n Thai and Bangladeshi artistic institutions to co-create events that highlight our shared heritage and religious links, particularly in Buddhism," said Ambassador Chirasawadi. By facilitating direct interactions between our youth, artists, and educators, she said, they hope to build a foundation of friendship that transcends diplomatic formalities and fosters a genuine, long-lasting bond between our peoples. Strengthening Democratic Institutions Responding to a question, Ambassador Chirasawadi said Thailand views governance cooperation primarily through the lens of technical assistance andcapacity building, facilitated by the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA). "We see significant opportunities to collaborate on public sector efficiency and digitization, sharing our experiences in e-governance and service delivery reforms," she said. The Ambassador mentioned that they are ready to organize training programs and exchange visits for public officials to share best practices in public administrationand policy implementation. "Our approach is anchored in mutual respect and the exchange of technical know-how rather than prescriptive measures," she said. The Ambassador said they believe that robust institutions are built through continuous professional development and adapting successful administrative models to local contexts. "Therefore, we are open to partnering with Bangladesh's training institutes to co-develop modules on good governance, transparency, and public service innovation that align with Bangladesh's own national reform priorities," said Ambassador Chirasawadi. Drawing from previous experience in Nepal, the Ambassador said she observed the cultural values shared amongSouth Asian countries, including Bangladesh. "This has enabled me to understand the various contexts of these countries, particularly their local communities as well as regional context," she said. Such understanding, the envoy said, they will contribute to the formulation of appropriate policies and cooperativeapproaches that can further advance the shared interests and prosperity of both countries in the years ahead.  

More than a decade after it was first approved with the promise of giving residents a cleaner, greener and more accessible lake environment, the Uttara Lake Development (1st Revised) Project remains mired in delays, extensions and rising costs. What was once envisioned as a model urban regeneration initiative—protecting the Uttara lake system from encroachment, improving water retention, preventing pollution and creating vibrant walkways and recreation spaces—has instead become a striking example of chronic stagnation in public infrastructure development. Recently the government extended the project deadline for the sixth time, pushing completion to June 2026. A Decade of Deadlines Missed The project, undertaken by the Ministry of Housing and Public Works was originally approved in 2014. At the time, it carried a modest two-year timeline from July 2014 to June 2016 and a cost estimate of Tk 37.32 crore. Read more: Banani Society's 55k Adda Park: Community-led initiative transforms decaying lakeside into urban oasis But as years passed with repeated extensions and little visible improvement, the financial footprint expanded dramatically. After revisions, the cost now stands at Tk 90.73 crore, nearly two and a half times the original estimate. RAJUK alone is bearing Tk 78.85 crore of that amount. “We need to protect the lake from pollution and encroachment, but all we see are deadlines being moved,” said Aminul Haque, a long-time resident of Sector 4. Why the Delay? RAJUK Lists a Long Chain of Reasons Officials attributed the most recent delay to multiple complications in the field. Unusually heavy rainfall during the current fiscal year has held back progress, while the land acquisition process has taken longer than expected. Read more: Kaptai Lake must be protected as a national asset: Farida Akhter The project area includes two mosques, forcing RAJUK to proceed cautiously. Daytime restrictions on truck movement have meant that sludge removal could only be carried out at night. Moreover, the project site is situated in a densely populated and congested neighbourhood, requiring slow and careful pallasiding work to avoid disturbing surrounding houses. RAJUK officials also reported resistance while attempting to evict illegal structures in an adjacent slum, further slowing the pace of work. The Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division (IMED) approved the government’s proposal for a one-year extension, but only under strict conditions. IMED emphasised that all remaining activities must be completed within the newly approved timeframe and no further extensions would be allowed. Read more: Teesta Dam ‘renovation’ in Rangpur turns into a 'sand bonanza' It observed that no audit objections were raised between the 2017–18 and 2022–23 financial years, but that audit work for 2023–24 is still pending. Current Progress: Some Movement, Much Left to Do According to RAJUK’s latest report, cumulative financial progress reached Tk 56.84 crore, or 62.65 per cent, as of May 2025, while physical progress stood at 65 per cent. The Planning Commission acknowledged the challenges of working in such a densely populated area but agreed that the extension was necessary to complete the remaining 35 per cent of work, including the removal of illegal structures around the lake. The project has been allocated Tk 16 crore in the Annual Development Programme for the 2025–26 financial year. Residents Wait—and Hope On paper, Uttara Lake should by now be lined with walkways, lush greenery, open spaces and cleaner water flowing through a restored ecosystem. But for many residents, the lake remains a reminder of promises delayed and opportunities lost. Read more: Tk 2105 cr housing projects for July martyrs’ families, injured get govt nod “It’s not that nothing has changed,” said Mumu Chowdhury, who lives near the lake area. “But the pace is too slow. We deserve better—this is our environment, our community.” With yet another deadline now set for mid-2026, residents are hoping this will finally be the last extension.

Bangladesh’s banking sector is experiencing a profound transformation, with a notable surge in small and lower-medium deposits coinciding with a sharp withdrawal of funds by the nation’s wealthiest depositors following the political changeover in August 2024. According to Bangladesh Bank (BB) data, total deposits rose to Tk19.14 lakh crore by the end of September 2025, up from Tk17.41 lakh crore a year earlier, marking a year-on-year growth of 9.98 percent—the second-highest in 18 months. August had recorded a slightly higher increase of 10.02 percent, a 17-month peak. Experts suggest that this paradoxical growth—rising overall deposits despite the exodus of ultra-rich clients—reflects renewed public confidence in the formal banking system amid ongoing economic uncertainty. Abdul Mannan, former executive director of Bangladesh Bank, told UNB, “Fixed-income groups and private sector pensioners are returning to the banking sector because banks are offering 10 to 11 percent returns on different term deposits. These depositors had previously left due to the single-digit interest rate policy of the former regime.” Read more: BB orders strict loan data updates to bar defaulters from election race Wealthy Depositors Withdraw Capital While aggregate deposits are climbing, accounts holding Tk50 crore or more have plunged from 72 to 26 within a year. Similarly, accounts in the Tk25-50 crore range have been halved to 78. Bangladesh Bank officials attribute this outflow to political and structural changes. “Large asset holders always make decisions based on the political environment. Therefore, it is natural for their funds to rapidly move elsewhere when the environment changes,” a senior official said. The main drivers include: ·         Political Vulnerability: Individuals associated with the previous government are reportedly seeking safe havens amid potential investigations. ·         Bank Mergers and Uncertainty: The new government’s consolidation of weaker banks has prompted large withdrawals. ·         Asset Diversification: Funds are moving to less-regulated avenues such as real estate, gold and informal transfers abroad (Hundi). ‘Deposit Protection Ordinance’ issues to boost confidence in banking sector Syed Mahbubur Rahman, MD and CEO of Mutual Trust Bank, observed that the ultra-rich tend to monitor political stability closely and return to investment once confidence is restored. Small Depositors Form the New Pillar In contrast, small and middle-class depositors are becoming the backbone of the sector. BB statistics reveal significant growth in smaller accounts: ·         Accounts holding Tk0-2 lakh rose to 14.76 crore from 13.28 crore in June 2024. ·         Accounts holding Tk2-25 lakh increased to 1.02 crore from 88.77 lakh. ·         Accounts in the Tk25-50 lakh bracket rose to 4.09 lakh from 3.64 lakh, while Tk50 lakh-1 crore accounts increased to 1.72 lakh from 1.59 lakh. ·         Overall, the number of millionaires with Tk1 crore or more grew by 8,552 over the past year, although ultra-rich accounts have declined, suggesting a shift towards medium-level wealth accumulation. Read more: Bangladesh shifts fiscal gears as bank debt falls Government Measures Reinforce Confidence To strengthen depositor confidence, the government introduced the Deposit Protection Ordinance, 2025, guaranteeing refunds up to Tk2 lakh in the event of bank liquidation or bankruptcy. The Deposit Insurance Department issued directives detailing the framework on November 23, emphasising swift disbursement and enhanced risk management for small depositors. “This has restored trust among small depositors, encouraging them to return to the banking system following the political transition,” Rahman said. The developments indicate a structural shift in Bangladesh’s banking sector, as smaller depositors increasingly form the foundation of growth while the ultra-wealthy recalibrate their exposure in response to political and economic changes. Read more: NPLs soar to 35.73% of disbursed loans as irregularities under AL get exposed

A Tk 1.5-crore project to renovate a vulnerable Teesta River dam in Nohali Union, Rangpur, has turned into a hub of illegal sand extraction, political involvement and profit-making, raising concerns among locals. Instead of reinforcing the embankment, influential groups and contractors are allegedly using the project to extract sand illegally. Locals describe it as a ‘sand looting festival’. The Water Development Board (Rangpur Zone) said the UNDP allocated Tk 1,38,94,085 to renovate a 1,206-metre stretch. Read more: Govt moves to modernise BSTI labs with Tk 851.93cr project Contractor Hasibul Hasan was officially in charge, but subcontractor Bharat Prasad is actually doing the work. Multiple irregularities have already been reported. No public notice board, required by law, was displayed at the site. Locals claim the work is proceeding secretly with the knowledge of PAUBO Executive Engineer Rabiul Islam. The official plan called for profiling the embankment with bamboo, pegs, and coconut-husk ropes, bringing soil from distant areas, and planting grass and tree seedlings. Instead, a 300-metre stretch has been filled only with sand, and a dredger is being prepared to extract sand directly from the river. Day labourer Serajul Islam said, “Four of us work here extracting sand for Tk 3,000 per day. The Executive Engineer knows about it.” Residents say local political figures, including UP Chairman Ashraf, former member Wahed, UP member Bakul (BNP), and member Azharul, are involved in the illegal sand removal. Most of the sand is sold outside, not used for the embankment. A 70-year-old former WDB employee warned that continued sand extraction could destroy homes in future floods. Attempts to protest were reportedly stopped by the Executive Engineer. Read more: Project launched to boost climate resilience, food security in Cox’s Bazar Subcontractor Bharat Prasad admitted he is managing the work through local political leaders and had paused site visits due to disputes over bamboo supply. UP member Azharul Islam claimed, “We are all working together; there is no problem.” Other local political leaders, including Ashraf Ali (Jatiya Party), Chand Sarker (BNP), Rifat Chowdhury (NCP), and Nayebuzzaman (Jamaat-e-Islami), denied involvement. PAUBO Executive Engineer Rabiul Islam initially defended sand extraction but later admitted irregularities and said he halted the work, ordering sand removal and proper reconstruction. UNO Mahmud Hasan Mridha said an investigation will be conducted, with action taken as needed, supported by Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan. Read more: Teesta cries for survival as northern Bangladesh’s lifeline runs dry

Public health experts have called for an urgent nationwide push to tackle the alarming rise in hypertension, which has emerged as the leading disease burden in Bangladesh, according to the newly released Health and Morbidity Status Survey (HMSS) 2025. The survey reveals that hypertension tops the list of the country’s 10 most common diseases, followed by peptic ulcer, diabetes, arthritis, skin diseases, heart disease, asthma, osteoporosis, hepatitis and diarrhoea. Researchers say the findings underscore how silently, yet steadily, high blood pressure has turned into a major public health threat — one that demands stronger public awareness and early detection campaigns. The HMSS 2025 compiled data from 1,89,986 individuals across 47,040 households during November–December last year. The Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) shared the findings at a dissemination event on Sunday. Experts warn that unless hypertension is addressed through mass screening, lifestyle awareness and affordable treatment, the nation could face a surge in heart attacks, strokes and kidney diseases in the coming years. Hypertension control key to reducing premature cardiovascular deaths: Speakers The report revealed that 332 out of every 1,000 people—33%—experienced some form of illness in the 90 days preceding the survey. The average per-person medical expenditure during that period stood at Tk 2,487, with women spending slightly more (Tk 2,576) compared to men (Tk 2,387). Women were found to rely more on government health facilities. According to the survey, 26.7% of people aged 15 and above use tobacco products. Usage remains higher in rural areas (27.7%) than in urban settings (24.1%). Dietary Habits Driving Hypertension Unhealthy dietary patterns continue to fuel the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies high salt and trans-fat consumption as major modifiable risk factors. WHO estimates that 3.9 million deaths worldwide in 2017 were linked to inadequate fruit and vegetable intake. Evidence suggests that diets rich in fruits and vegetables—and low in fat, sugar and salt—can help prevent NCD risk factors. Professor Dr. Mohammad Shoeb, Member (Food Industry and Production) of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), said the agency is not only enforcing trans-fat regulations but also working to introduce front-of-pack labeling to promote healthier food choices. Professor Dr Sohel Reza Choudhury, Head of Epidemiology and Research at the National Heart Foundation, stressed the need for a system that informs consumers about salt and ingredient levels in processed foods before purchasing. Despite ongoing efforts, one in four Bangladeshis still suffers from hypertension, and experts warn that current initiatives are not enough. Ensuring an uninterrupted supply of anti-hypertensive medicine at Community Clinics and Upazila Health Complexes is critical, they said. Bangladesh has been recognised as a positive example in the WHO’s second Global Report on Hypertension, which found that hypertension control rates rose from 15% in 2019 to 56% in 2025 in several regions. The WHO report highlights the importance of ensuring free medicines at grassroots level and calls for sustained long-term investment. Globally, heart diseases account for one in every five premature deaths, with hypertension being a leading cause. In Bangladesh, 34% of all deaths are attributed to heart diseases. According to the WHO Global Report on Hypertension 2025, 283,000 people die of cardiovascular diseases annually in Bangladesh, and 52% of these deaths are linked to hypertension. WHO states that over 1,000 lives are lost every hour worldwide due to strokes and heart attacks caused by uncontrolled hypertension—most of them preventable. Professor Dr Abdullah Al Shafi Majumder, former Director of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), stressed the importance of early diagnosis and medical control of hypertension to curb cardiovascular deaths. Dr. Geeta Rani Devi, Programme Manager of Community Based Health Care (CBHC), emphasized starting health promotion initiatives at the community level, supported by strong policy advocacy for healthy eating habits. Dr. Muhammad Habibur Rahman, Deputy Director at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), acknowledged budgetary and management constraints in providing medicines for hypertension and other NCDs. Progress in controlling hypertension encouraging, not sufficient: Speakers “However, we are hopeful these issues will be resolved soon,” he said. Md. Riad Arafin, Deputy General Manager (Sales & Marketing) of the Essential Drugs Company Limited (EDCL), told UNB that the organization remains committed to timely supply of anti-hypertensive medicines. “We ensure these medicines reach NCD corners and Community Clinics for people at the grassroots, and we remain committed to its continuation,” he said.  

The government is set to establish a modern and fully equipped school for children with special needs in Dhaka, aiming to ease the acute shortage of quality education and therapy services for children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) and other disabilities in the capital. The new institution — Asha’r Alo School Dhaka (For Children with Special Needs) — will be built under a project taken by the Ministry of Social Welfare. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will implement the project with technical support from the Bangladesh Navy. According to the Development Project Proposal (DPP), the project will run from July 2025 to December 2027 at a cost of Tk 49.56 crore. Of this, Tk 29.73 crore will come from the government and Tk 19.82 crore from the Navy’s own funds. The restructured DPP has been forwarded to the Planning Commission for approval. A major step amid huge demand Dhaka North City Corporation has 43,846 children with special needs, according to Census 2022 and Social Welfare Ministry data. Yet the area has only 10 specialised schools — meaning nearly 95 percent of children remain without access to appropriate educational or therapeutic support. Against this backdrop, the new school in Joar Sahara, Khilkhet, under DNCC, is expected to significantly expand access in an area where demand drastically outweighs supply. The project includes the construction of a six-storey foundation with a four-storey functional school building. It will accommodate 300 students, with 30 percent receiving free education. The facility will also provide residential care for five abandoned or orphaned children with special needs. Model institution with modern facilities Designed as a model school, the Dhaka campus will feature Physiotherapy and occupational therapy, Speech and language therapy, Psychotherapy, Hydrotherapy, Sensory parks and recreational areas, Counselling services for parents, Vocational training space, a playground and landscaped outdoor areas. Officials said the aim is to strengthen both academic and vocational learning so that children with special needs can develop confidence, independence and the skills needed for social integration. Part of a larger national and international commitment The initiative supports the government’s obligations under the Persons with Disabilities’ Rights and Protection Act 2013 and is aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). It also fits within the broader goals of the Perspective Plan 2021–2041, which focuses on building an inclusive and equitable society. Asha’r Alo’s proven model The Asha’r Alo special education model began in 2003 in Chattogram under the patronage of the Bangladesh Navy. The school quickly earned recognition for its high-quality education, healthcare and vocational training for children with NDDs. A second branch opened in Khulna’s Khalishpur in 2016. Together, they now serve nearly 400 children. The Navy conducted a needs assessment for Dhaka, which shaped the new DPP. Key components of the project include constructing the non-residential academic building, electrical works, water and sanitation systems, furniture, fixtures, and landscaping. Planning Commission officials said the project has strong justification and could make a ‘meaningful and lasting impact’ on the lives of thousands of special needs children in the capital. More than half of children with disabilities in Bangladesh remain outside the formal education system, according to national data. The information comes from the National Survey on Persons with Disabilities (NSPD) 2021, carried out by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) with UNICEF’s technical assistance. The survey shows that among children aged 5–17 with disabilities, only 65 per cent attend primary school and just 35 per cent are enrolled in secondary school. Overall, 60 per cent of children with disabilities in this age group are not receiving any education. The study also reveals that even those who do attend school are, on average, more than two years behind academically compared to their peers. According to the data, 1.7 per cent of Bangladeshi children have at least one of the twelve types of disabilities defined in the Persons with Disability Rights and Protection Act 2013, while 3.6 per cent experience functional difficulties in areas such as seeing, hearing, mobility, fine motor skills, communication, learning, playing or behaviour control.  

As winter gently settles across the country, the historic Shalban Bihar and the Mainamati Museum in Cumilla are becoming alive once again with colour, calm and charm, inviting tourists with their timeless wonders. Under the Department of Archaeology of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the sites have been beautified with flower gardens, strengthened security systems and enhanced cleanliness measures. Members of the Tourist Police and Ansar remain on duty day and night to ensure visitor safety. Two ancient archaeological sites of Bangladesh sites—Shalban Buddhist Bihar and the Mainamati Museum stand against the green slopes of the Lalmai–Mainamati hill range, which is a living testimony of Bangladesh's ancient Buddhist civilization, architectural style and culture.  A Window into 7th–8th Century Buddhist Life Shalban Bihar, located in Kotbari of Cumilla Sadar upazila, is believed to have been built between the late 7th and early 8th century by Shri Bhavadeva, the fourth ruler of the Deva dynasty. Spread across nearly 37 acres, the quadrangular Bihar measures 167.7 meters on each side, with outer walls almost five meters thick.  At its heart stands a central shrine, surrounded by 115 monastic cells where Buddhist monks once lived, studied and meditated. Each cell contains three niches designed to hold statues, oil lamps and religious objects.

There can be few jobs as unrewarding as that of a Bangladeshi traffic sergeant. This is particularly true if you happen to be posted in its overpopulated, unplanned capital. By its very nature, the job entails long hours spent outdoors, which in this part of the world exposes you to very hot and humid conditions, apart from putting you in the thick of both air and noise pollution. On top of all that, you must deal with an unruly, irreverent populace that puts no premium on the civic sense to abide by traffic laws and can even be openly hostile to people in uniform when pulled up for their actions. On October 31, 2025, at approximately 11pm, Sergeant Md. Zahid Hossain Mintu and Constable Shahidul Haque of the Ramna Traffic Division were on night duty at Moghbazar Crossing. At that time, a private car was coming from the direction of Moghbazar Railway Gate towards Mintoo Road. When Constable Shahidul Haque Sahed, under the direction of the on-duty sergeant, signaled the car to stop, the driver ignored the signal and attempted to speed away. Read more: How to Get Traffic Updates in Dhaka: Useful Apps and Sources With the help of other traffic officers, the vehicle was eventually stopped. When asked to show vehicle documents, the occupants - Mahbub Hasan Siam (20), son of Md. Kabir Hossain, and Khairul Alam (20), both residents of Keraniganj, began shouting on the road, forcibly grabbing Constable Shahidul Haque by his police uniform, and alleging that he was a “fake police officer,” while using abusive language. Their actions constitute an offense under Section 75 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance. Legal action was also taken against the vehicle under the Road Transport Act, 2018. Subsequently, the two accused were produced before the Special Metropolitan Magistrate, Ramna, who sentenced them to 15 (fifteen) days of simple imprisonment. This is just one story that demonstrates the challenges faced by the Traffic Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police in the course of performing their duties. Disobeying the traffic rules everywhere has now become almost normalised in the city, despite the Traffic Division’s best efforts to impose some order on the roads. As Dhaka expands further, experts warn that without comprehensive traffic management reforms and long-term planning, the capital’s roads will soon reach a breaking point — making everyday life even more difficult for millions. Recent traffic‐enforcement drives by the DMP illustrate the scale of the problem. In early November 2025, the Traffic Division filed 2,580 cases over just two days across various parts of the city, with 676 vehicles dumped and 176 towed in that period. On Nov 8, 2025 they reported filing 1,037 cases in a single day, towing 96 vehicles and dumping 277. Another earlier drive on October 21 saw 1,658 cases, with 398 vehicles dumped and 130 towed. Meanwhile, nationally, BRTA data shows alarming accident and fatality numbers: in 2023, the authority recorded 5,024 deaths in road accidents and 7,495 injuries involving 7,837 vehicles. The urban crawl City‐officials point out that Dhaka, where amenities were originally planned and designed for a much smaller population, now accommodates over 20 million residents, while thousands of new vehicles join the roads each month. According to BRTA statistics, in one recent dataset, Dhaka alone had over 43,398 buses, 42,968 covered vans, and a large volume of other vehicle types registered within its metropolitan area while the average traffic speed on Dhaka’s roads has fallen from about 21 km/h in 2006 to just 5 km/h in 2024. Commuters are bearing the brunt. “I leave home at 7am and still end up late to the office. The traffic feels endless,” said Mahmud Hasan, a private‐sector employee travelling from Mirpur to Motijheel. The toll is not just time: health costs, fuel waste, and lost productivity mount steadily. Read more: Traffic police back to work after one week Despite continued investments—such as the mega projects like elevated expressways and metrorails—the results remain patchy. Without coordinated, long-term traffic management initiatives—covering road‐space reallocation, public transport strengthening, parking regulation, the harnessing of technology, and behavioural change—the capital’s roads risk pushing everyday life closer to breaking point. Autorickshaws pose dilemma Another persistent problem is the unregulated movement of autorickshaws and battery-powered three-wheelers. Though these vehicles serve as an essential mode of transport for short distances, their sheer number and frequent violations of traffic rules make them a major source of gridlock. Many operate beyond their permitted zones, occupy key intersections, and often stop abruptly to pick up passengers — severely disrupting traffic flow. “Auto-rickshaws are convenient but undisciplined,” said a private car driver Shahin. “Many drivers ignore signals, drive against the flow, and use roads where they are banned. Without strict regulation, they will keep adding to the chaos.” According to DMP reports, unauthorized three-wheelers and easy bikes continue to enter restricted areas such as key city corridors, despite repeated drives. Traffic authorities have seized hundreds of such vehicles in recent operations, but enforcement remains difficult due to their large numbers and high commuter Equally troubling is footpath encroachment, which forces thousands of pedestrians onto already congested roads. In many areas — including Gulistan, New Market, Mirpur, and Farmgate — sidewalks remain occupied by makeshift shops, tea stalls, and parked motorcycles. Hawkers have virtually taken over walkways in commercial hubs, leaving little space for foot traffic. According to DMP officials, the lack of usable sidewalks increases the number of pedestrians walking on the roads, reducing vehicle speed and increasing the risk of accidents. “We conduct eviction drives almost every week, but the vendors return within days,” said a DMP zone officer from the Traffic South Division. “As long as there’s no coordinated rehabilitation plan for hawkers, the problem will continue.” Read more: DMP Chief calls for traffic police involvement in road accident investigations