Dhaka
Mobile internet temporarily shut down, says Palak; cites unstable situation as reason
In response to the unrest sparked by ongoing protests demanding reforms to the quota system in government jobs, mobile internet services have been temporarily shut down, State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, Zunaid Ahmed Palak said today (July 18, 2024).
During a press briefing at the ICT Tower in Dhaka’s Agargaon, Palak addressed the media, saying, “Mobile internet services have been temporarily halted due to the unstable situation created centering the protests. Once the situation stabilizes, we will restore connectivity promptly.”
‘Complete Shutdown’: Protestors, police clash in Dhaka’s Uttara; police box and 2 buses vandalized
The state minister explained that the suspension was necessary to curb the spread of rumors and maintain stability amid the protests. “Various groups with vested interest have been spreading false information on social media, contributing to the instability. Hence, the decision to shut down mobile internet services was made without prior notice, based on the evolving situation,” he added.
Palak also highlighted the government’s communication with major social media platforms like Facebook, Google, YouTube, and TikTok.
He expressed dissatisfaction with their privacy policies concerning the removal of controversial content. “We have contacted these companies, but their privacy policies regarding content removal are not satisfactory. If their actions lead to any casualties, they will not be exempt from accountability. These companies must establish data centers in Bangladesh and operate in compliance with local laws,” he said.
Read more: Shutdown cripples capital city amid clashes between police and protesters
Situation tense at Badda after students-police clash
A clash erupted between police and students of Brac University in the Badda area of Dhaka on Thursday (July 18, 2024) when the students gathered there as part of the ‘complete shutdown’ programme.
The situation turned worse as police fired several rounds of tear gas to disperse the students in the morning in front of the university campus.
Witnesses said the university students started coming to the campus in the morning and took to the streets.
‘Complete Shutdown’: Protestors, police clash in Dhaka’s Uttara; police box and 2 buses vandalized
As police chased them they went up to the gate of BRAC University. They came back together again and chased the policemen, triggering a clash.
The students chased the policemen to Badda U-loop. However, additional police were deployed in the area to control the situation.
Deputy Officer-in-Charge Abdul Haq Abbasi of Badda Police Station confirmed the clash, stating that one police officer was injured and is receiving medical treatment.
Students allege that police entered their campus and lobbed tear gas and sound grenades, resulting in several injuries, though the exact number is unknown.
Shutdown cripples capital city amid clashes between police and protesters
Apart from Brac University students, students from several nearby colleges and North South University also gathered, engaging in clashes with police.
A tense situation has been prevailing with fears of further confrontations.
‘Complete Shutdown’: Protestors, police clash in Dhaka’s Uttara; police box and 2 buses vandalized
As part of the announced countrywide ‘Complete Shutdown’ from dawn to dusk today (July 18, 2024), students demanding quota system reform from several colleges and universities took to the streets in Dhaka’s Uttara.
Their protest turned violent when police intervened to disperse them, leading to clashes.
To bring the situation under control, police lobbed tear gas multiple times. Protesters then vandalized a police box and two buses.
The clash occurred in front of Zamzam Tower in Uttara.
Read more: Situation tense at Badda after students-police clash
According to witnesses, the protestors gathered at the same location as on previous days. Upon receiving news of the gathering, police rushed to the scene and began firing tear gas shells to clear the street, which sparked the confrontation.
At one point, protesters retaliated by hurling brickbats at the police, leading to repeated chase and counter-chase.
During the clash, demonstrators vandalized a traffic police box near Zamzam Tower and damaged two buses.
Sub-nspector (SI) Ripon, duty officer at Uttara Purbo Paschim Police Station, said that the clashes were going on and the extent of the damages was yet to be determined. Police officers are actively working at the scene.
Read more: Shutdown cripples capital city amid clashes between police and protesters
Shutdown cripples capital city amid clashes between police and protesters
Firing teargas and rubber bullets riot police clashed with quota-reform protesters in different parts of the capital city in the first hours of Thursday (July 18, 2024) at the start of a nationwide complete shutdown.
Riot police fought pitched battles with the protesters in Badda, Merul, Uttara, Dhamandi, Motijheel and Arambagh. Police used teargas shells and rubber bullets. Cocktails --home-made bombs-- rocked different parts of the city. The clashes also spread in the alleys of the residential areas causing panic among residents, eyewitnesses said.
Private BRAC university at Badda and its surrounding areas turned into battle fields as students, including from schools took to the streets defying heavy presence of police and Border Guards of Bangladesh personnel. The government has deployed 229 BGB platoons to maintain law and order during the shutdown. No casualties have so far been reported during the first few hours of violence on Thursday. But an 18-year-old boy was reportedly killed in clashes at Jatrabari on Wednesday night raising the death toll from ongoing quota protests to seven.
Read more: Violent clashes continue in Dhaka’s Jatrabari, Shanir Akhra areas during shutdown
Hundreds have been injured in the first few days of clashes.
Clashes between protesters, many carrying sticks, and riot police occurred at Uttara, where dozens of colleges and schools are located.
At Uttara's Housebuilding area thousands of students, including women, blocked the main road connecting Tongi with the capital city.
Carrying sticks the students have gathered from all educational institutions in the surrounding areas.
No transport except rickshaws are seen here. After chases and counter-chases seen in the morning amid teargassing riot police seemed to have retreated down the road at Azampur.
Read more: ‘Complete Shutdown’: Protestors, police clash in Dhaka’s Uttara; police box and 2 buses vandalized
"We are not going anywhere until our demands are met," said a 16-year-old girl who has joined from a nearby English-medium school.
UNB is withholding both the name of the girl and her school for their safety.
During the shutdown the capital city's usual chaotic traffic was absent with a few BRTC double-decker buses opening on almost empty streets.
Rickshaws ruled the streets in absence of public transports as commuters were seen walking to the destinations or standing on bus stations in the hope of catching a transport.
The students called for the shutdown, shortly after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a televised speech on Wednesday evening called for restraint and urged the protesters to wait patiently until the Supreme Court verdict is delivered on the quota issue.
She assured the students that they won't be disappointed with the upcoming verdict scheduled for the first week of next month.
She also ordered a judicial enquiry into the killings during the protests to identify the culprits.
Read more: Situation tense at Badda after students-police clash
Any attempt to deteriorate law and order to be dealt with strictly: DMP Commissioner
Amid the students’ ongoing agitation demanding quota reform, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Mohammad Habibur Rahman on Monday (July 15, 2024) warned that any attempt to deteriorate the law and order will be resisted strictly.
He issued the warning while talking to reporters over the security measures centring the upcoming Holy Ashura and Tajia procession at Hussaini Dalan Imambari in Old Dhaka.
“We have to abide by the court order. Therefore, police will work keeping respect to the court order. If anyone tries to destabilize law and order situation, it will be dealt with an iron hand,” the DMP chief said.
Case filed against quota protesters for “obstructing police” and “vandalism” in Dhaka’s Shahbagh
Addressing the security measures over the Holy Ashura and Tajia procession, Habibur said that they have already taken all preparations to ensure security of those who will observe the event.
Security will be monitored from the high rises adjacent to the Imambaras while law enforcers in plainclothes will be in place along with uniformed ones, he said.
As there is a custom to bear a flag during the procession, they (event organizers) were cautioned not to keep it too high so that it doesn’t touch the electric wires, he added.
Read more: Clash erupts between quota protestors, BCL activists at DU; Several injured
“A kiss over bribe”: Nachiketa’s social message to Dhaka audience
Popular Indian musician Nachiketa Chakraborty, who always talks about love and life with strong social messages through his songs, spent an evening with music lovers in Dhaka, conveying that it is better to “kiss someone with love instead of taking bribes.”
“I personally believe that a kiss is better than bribe. Does it sound vulgar?” — asked Nachiketa while engaging with the audience through his songs at Hatirjheel Amphitheatre last night.
Seeing a huge crowd and loud voices soon after his entry on the stage, the multi-dimensional singer, lyricist and composer of extraordinary caliber said, “That’s the spirit of Bangladesh.”
The music lovers in the city were worried about the rain interrupting their chances of experiencing the melodious performances of the musical maestros but the show that also saw participation of renowned artists Arnob, Armeen Musa and Ahmed Hasan Sunny, ended without any interruption.
The concert, titled "Dhaka Melancholy", was organised by Blue Brick Communications.
Nachiketa's 30th anniversary concert set to enthrall Dhaka
‘Hothat Brishti’ Reunion
As planned, film star and lawmaker Ferdous Ahmed, landing in Dhaka from Singapore, entered the venue when Nachiketa was performing. When Nachiketa invited him to join him on stage, Ferdous said, “Nachiketa is very dear to me. I’m seeing you after a long time. This is the first time we are together on stage in Dhaka. It's like a sudden rain.”
“This is one of the best moments for me. I am very emotional,” he said, sharing memories of his debut in films with the movie “Hothat Brishti” directed by Basu Chatterjee in 1998. Nachiketa composed songs for the film.
Talking about Ferdous’ changed role, Nachiketa in a humorous mood said, “Tai Bole Politics?”
“If we all avoid politics, who will come forward? We will do good work for the society as described in your songs,” Ferdous said, seeking blessings from the singer.
Nachiketa, who is a well-known name in both Bangladesh and India, said he has become what he always wanted to be as he began his hit song “Ambition”. The lyrics goes “Someone wants to be a doctor, someone an engineer, someone wants to be a businessman or a barrister…..I will be a vagabond, that is my ambition.”
He also sang the song which describes a father’s desire to see his son as a minister, and narrated through the song how politics is a way of making money for some people.
Nachiketa, however, said this was not related to Bangladesh as he claimed he does not know about the situation here.
Fiha Rahman, a dental college student, who came with her elder sister, said she felt fortunate to have an opportunity to listen to Nachiketa live for the first time.
“I can tell you, he penned and sang for all generations. His songs carry important social messages, he talks about life and love,” she told UNB.
Read more: Booming Turkish TV drama industry captures hearts and minds worldwide and boosts tourism
Roudro who joined the show with his wife said this was a lifetime experience to listen to Nachiketa live. “We are hugely influenced by his powerful songs.”
Nachiketa at the end sang a song which gives everyone hope for a positive change. The lyrics of the song goes “One day the storm will stop, the world will be peaceful again, homes will reemerge, the sky will be filled with light, and all outdated doctrines will be history.”
Arnob was the last singer of the concert who wrapped it up with his iconic song, “Shey je boshe ache.”
Nachiketa will also perform at KIB Auditorium, Dhaka on July 26.
Can a Sponge City Tackle Flooding in Dhaka?
Dhaka, the overburdened capital city of Bangladesh, faces severe water management challenges, such as flood and waterlogging, especially during the monsoon season. The concept of a Sponge City offers a promising solution to combat these issues. This article delves into the details of the Sponge City concept, its successful implementation in other countries, and why it should be adopted in Dhaka.
The Concept of Sponge City
Kongjian Yu, a Chinese landscape architect and professor, pioneered the concept of the Sponge City. A Sponge City is designed to passively absorb, clean, and utilize rainwater in an eco-friendly manner by reducing polluted runoff. Essentially, it uses landscapes and infrastructure to preserve water and promote natural retention, infiltration, and purification of drainage.
Key techniques associated with a Sponge City include:
· Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater for various uses.
· Permeable Roads: Roads designed to allow water to seep through and be absorbed into the ground.
· Terrace Gardens: Green roofs that help absorb rainwater and reduce runoff.
· Green Spaces and Waterbodies: Parks, ponds, and lakes that act as natural water retention and purification systems.
Proper implementation of these techniques can minimize the frequency and severity of floods, improve water quality, and reduce individual water usage. Green roofs, for example, enhance the quality of life by improving air quality and mitigating urban heat islands. Overall, a Sponge City can efficiently handle excess water during heavy rains and reuse it during dry periods to combat water shortages.
Read more: How to Build Dhaka as a Water Wise City
How China Adopted the Concept of Sponge City
In 2013, the Chinese Central Government adopted Professor Kongjian Yu’s Sponge City concept, implementing it across 30 cities. Following successful trials, China aims to transform 80% of urban areas into “sponges” by 2030.
The core principle of Chinese Sponge Cities is to give water enough room and time to drain into the soil rather than quickly channeling it into large dams. Instead of fast-flowing water channels, these cities employ meandering streams without concrete walls, allowing water to spread out during heavy rains. Yu asserts that replacing concrete infrastructure with natural systems can save lives.
In Sponge City designs, natural waterways and permeable soils clean water and reduce pollution. Evaporated rainwater cools the city, while collected rainwater is used for irrigation, street cleaning, and other purposes, reducing the reliance on tap water.
The vegetation, sediments, and microorganisms in Sponge City water systems lessen the burden on energy-intensive urban water filtration facilities. As climate change brings unpredictable rainfall, Sponge City buildings are constructed to accommodate rising water levels during floods.
Compared to traditional gray infrastructure, Sponge City designs require less energy for maintenance. They reduce the load on water treatment facilities, decrease the need for air conditioning due to heat reduction effects, and use fewer resources like concrete. Additionally, vast green spaces absorb carbon dioxide and air pollutants, promote biodiversity, and provide recreational areas for residents.
China has also implemented Sponge City concepts in Ningbo, a coastal city 150 km south of Shanghai. Ningbo’s sponge infrastructure includes an eco-corridor on a post-industrial site, where channeled water flows through meandering waterways surrounded by native plants. This blue space improves water quality, provides habitat for flora and fauna, and reduces the risk of waterlogging.
Read more: What Can Dhaka Learn from the Smart City Singapore
Application of Sponge City Model in Copenhagen
Copenhagen adopted the Sponge City concept in its Cloudburst Master Plan, developed in 2012. This plan redesigns approximately 250 public spaces to retain or redirect floodwaters, including parks, playgrounds, and the Sankt Kjelds Plads roundabout. Green spaces like trees, shrubs, and soil naturally retain water and direct it to non-destructive areas.
DMP warns against road blockades amid anti-quota protests
Strict action will be taken against individuals who block roads in the name of the ‘Blockade,’ Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Ops) Dr. Mahid Uddin warned today.
Addressing a press conference at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Media Center, he emphasized that causing public suffering through road blockades is a punishable offense under existing laws.
Despite the Supreme Court’s Appellate Division issuing a status quo on the High Court’s judgment regarding the quota system in government jobs, anti-quota protesters are continuing the ‘Bangla Blockade’ across the country. They demand the cancellation of the quota system and the reinstatement of the 2018 circular. Protesters plan to take to the streets again at 3:30 pm today.
The Additional Police Commissioner elaborated, “Yesterday, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court upheld the 2018 circular with a four-week suspension order. As a result, the 2018 circular remains in effect during this period. Therefore, there is no justification for causing public hardship through protests.”
Quota protesters to observe half-day ‘Bangla Blockade’ tomorrow
He appealed to the students, saying, “We have love and sympathy for the students, but we must respect the existing laws and the decisions of our highest court. As educated individuals, I urge the students not to organize any programs that cause public suffering. The 2018 circular is still in effect.”
The DMP official added, “Yesterday, protesters occupied 21 locations. We managed the situation professionally, ensuring the free movement of Dhaka residents. Since the court has settled the matter, we hope there will be no further public disruptions.”
“A movement should have a logical basis. Currently, the Apex Court’s order is in favor of the protesters. If there is no logic in the movement, it should not continue. We request the students to cease these programs. It will benefit everyone, including the city residents and the respect for our judicial system,” he said.
Mertro rail faces huge passenger pressure amid Quota protesters' 'Bangla Blockade'
“If the roads are blocked, then you’re impeding the freedom of movement, according to our constitution. We hope the protesters will not commit this offense. In the past ten days, the police have acted professionally, maintaining respect for the students. We believe the students will reciprocate this respect towards the law, the city residents, and the police,” the DMP official said.
When asked if the police would take action if the protests continued, he said, “Our professional approach has been to manage these situations calmly, and we aim to continue this. We hope the protesters will understand their position, especially given the court’s order. Since the 2018 circular is in effect, there is no logical basis for the protests.”
Students protests force EU ambassador to abandon car and take CNG to meet Speaker
Due to ongoing road blockades by students, outgoing Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley on Wednesday had to abandon his car on Dhaka Expressway and find alternative ways to reach the parliament building for his scheduled farewell meeting with Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury.
Whiteley was stuck on the expressway as students protesting against quota in government jobs paralysed the city’s traffic causing huge suffering to the commuters.
Read more: Dhaka-Mymensingh rail communication disrupted as BAU students continue “Bangla Blockade”
He shared a video, taken by Deputy Head of Mission Dr Bernd Spanier, depicting his journey- partly by walking and a CNG ride –to the destination.
“We abandoned the car on the expressway due to protests and made it to the call on Hon Speaker by CNG - a commemorative video made by Bernd, including a death-defying high-wire sequence,” Whiteley wrote sharing the video from his Facebook account.
Whiteley is due to leave Dhaka wrapping up his three-year tenure in Bangladesh.
Read more: Bangla Blockade: Students block Barishal-Dhaka highway
Dhaka, Beijing announce 7 outcomes, including completion of feasibility study on FTA
Bangladesh and China on Wednesday (July 10, 2024) announced seven outcomes, including that conclusion of joint feasibility study on Bangladesh-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Other announced outcomes are commencement of negotiation on the optimisation of Bangladesh-China bilateral investment treaty; completion of the Modernization of Telecommunication Network for Digital Connectivity project; completion of trial run of the Single Point Mooring with Double Pipe Line project; commencement of Rajshahi WASA Surface Water Treatment Plant; and signing of MoU between Shandong Agricultural University and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur; and the construction of Luban Workshop in Bangladesh.
Dhaka-Beijing bilateral meeting starts
The outcomes were announced after the delegation-level bilateral meeting led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is now visiting Beijing as part of her official visit at the invitation of Chinese premier Li Qiang.
She will end her visit after holding a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jingping on Wednesday afternoon.
Read more: Dhaka, Beijing likely to sign around 20 MoUs; announce some dev projects: Hasan Mahmud