Dhaka ranked third on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 287 at 8:34 am on Sunday morning. Dhaka’s air was classified as 'very unhealthy', according to the air quality and pollution city ranking. India's Delhi and Pakistan’s Lahore occupied the first and second spots in the list, with AQI scores of 475 and 291, respectively. Bangladesh’s three divisions brace for rain An AQI between 151 and 200 is considered 'unhealthy' while 201-300 is 'very unhealthy' and 301-400 is considered 'hazardous', posing severe health risks to residents. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.

Road Transport and Bridges Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan on Saturday said the interim government will prioritise addressing the needs of people through direct engagement instead of the practice of making plans solely from Dhaka.  "From now on the interim government will not make any plans sitting in Dhaka. We will do what the people want by talking to them," he said while speaking to reporters in front of the administrative building of Itna Upazila Parishad.  The adviser assured that the government is actively working to resolve issues arising from the construction of all-weather road in the Haor region of Kishoreganj. Chief Adviser Dr Yunus attends Adviser Ariff’s Janaza He said connecting Haor upazilas with the Kishoreganj district on one side and Sylhet on the other would be treated as a priority.  Earlier in the day, Fouzul Kabir Khan traveled to Itna Upazila via road from Kishoreganj and participated in a view-exchange meeting at the Itna Upazila administration hall. The meeting brought together freedom fighters, local political leaders, government officials, teachers, journalists and members of civil society.  Transport sector mired in corruption: Adviser Nahid During his journey, the adviser inspected the Itna-Mithamain-Ashtagram all-weather road.  Secretary of the Roads and Bridges Department Ehsanul Haque, Kishoreganj Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Khan, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Hasan Chowdhury and other officials accompanied the adviser during the visit.

List of extortionists in Dhaka city is being prepared and drives against them will begin within two or three days, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sazzat Ali on Saturday. “The prices of essential commodities are on the rise due to extortion and no one involved in extortion will be spared, ” he said at a view-exchange meeting with police, students and residents of Ramna area at Institution of Diploma Engineers in the capital. He said low and middle income group people have been going through terrible hardship due to the skyrocketing prices of daily essentials caused by the extortion. Commerce Adviser mourns Hassan Ariff's death Noting that the mugging incidents in Dhaka have increased, Sazzat urged people to be cautious while moving on roads. He also urged hawkers to refrain from extortion and to do their business in an orderly manner on streets. Foreign Affairs Adviser mourns death of AF Hassan Ariff Besides, terming the motorcycle as a risky vehicle, the DMP boss assured that the discipline will be brought in traffic system. Expressing concern over the excessive use of horns in traffic congestion, the DMP commissioner said, “Drivers who repeatedly blow their horns will face action soon.”

Popular Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has arrived in Dhaka to perform at the "Echoes of Revolution" concert tonight at the capital’s Army Stadium. The renonwed Pakistani singer, known for his timeless tracks such as "Afreen Afreen," "O Re Piya," "Jiya Dhadak Dhadak," "Dil Ka Mizaaj Ishqiya" and more - is the headliner and main act of the concert, which is aimed to support the injured brave souls and affected families of the July Uprising. Rahat landed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 12 am and is currently staying at a five-star hotel in the capital. DMP issues traffic guidelines for ‘Echoes of Revolution’ concert A group of Dhaka University students greeted the popular singer with flowers. Organised by the Spirits of July platform, the concert is also featuring popular local bands and artists including Artcell, Chirkutt, Aftermath, and members of Silsila, and July Uprising-famed rappers Shezan and Hannan.  In order to help victims of the July uprising, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will perform his popular songs at the event for without remuneration. Several other arrangements have been made for the concert, such as toll-free access to the elevated expressway, and subsidised tickets for students. According to a special order issued by NBR on Thursday, the concert has been exempted from the applicable value-added tax (VAT) and supplementary duty. Earlier, the Dhaka Elevated Expressway authorities said it would not collect any toll from vehicles on the day of the concert. Bangladesh Army also waived the rent for the Army Stadium, the venue for the concert. Apart from music, the concert event will feature various corners including a graffiti exhibition related to the July Revolution, a stage play, and a 'Mugdho water zone' in commemoration of the July Martyr Mir Mugdho. The title sponsor of the concert is Prime Bank. Concert tickets have been sold in three categories: 'VIP' (10,000 tk), 'Front Row' (4,500 tk) and 'General' (2,500 tk). Students received discounts for their tickets in all three categories. All proceeds from the concert ticket sales will be donated to the Shaheed July Smriti Foundation to help those injured and killed in the July Uprising. 

Dhaka ranked third on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 205 at 8:56 am on Saturday morning. Dhaka’s air was classified as 'very unhealthy', according to the air quality and pollution city ranking. India's Delhi and Pakistan’s Lahore occupied the first and second spots in the list, with AQI scores of 346 and 235, respectively. Dhaka’s air quality world's worst this morning An AQI between 151 and 200 is considered 'unhealthy' while 201-300 is 'very unhealthy' and 301-400 is considered 'hazardous', posing severe health risks to residents. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka’s air quality 2nd worst on Sunday morning Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.    

Christmas and New Year's Eve mark a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. This season invites opportunities for picnics, travel, and cherishing moments with family and friends. Around Dhaka, numerous picturesque spots offer ideal settings for day trips and vacation celebrations close to home. Discover the best places near Dhaka for day tours and staycations to make your festive season memorable. Top Locations Around Dhaka for Christmas & New Year Vacations . The Cottage House Nestled in the rustic area of Savar, Cottage House is a stunning guesthouse spanning an impressive 28,800 square feet. This state-of-the-art villa, located just an hour from Dhaka, boasts a 1,300-square-foot swimming pool, perfect for relaxation. Guests can unwind in two spacious air-conditioned rooms and enjoy amenities like barbecue facilities, open dining, and a badminton court. The lush green lawn, thoughtfully designed garden, and an artistic swing at its center elevate the aesthetic charm of this retreat. For those seeking luxury blended with tranquility, the Cottage House offers an ideal escape. The resort’s address is Plot 93B, Badda Bhatpara Road, Savar, Dhaka. The place is reachable through Savar's Bazar Road. Read more: Exploring Sreemangal: Top Destinations for an Unforgettable Travel Experience Mawa Thanks to the operational Bhanga Expressway, this busiest area has become a tourist hotspot. Known for its vibrant ferry ghat and the iconic Padma Bridge, the locality is ideal for day trips.  Visitors can savor freshly cooked Hilsa, enjoy boat rides on the Padma River, and return to Dhaka by evening. Sunset seekers are drawn to the captivating views of the mesmerizing and mighty Padma River, which add a touch of magic to the experience. One standout destination in Mawa is Project Hilsha at Louhajang, Munshiganj. This architectural marvel shaped like a Hilsa fish is more than a restaurant. It’s an attraction offering local and international cuisine alongside child-friendly rides. Read more: How to Visit Dinajpur's Kantajew Temple Shilbarir Heshel Located in the idyllic village of Nandankana, Sirajdikhan, Heshel of Shilbari is a unique venue that embodies rural elegance. Spread across 105 katha, this property features a charming courtyard surrounded by trees, a traditional wooden house inspired by Bikrampur's architectural style, and a serene pond. Dining here is an extraordinary experience, with food served on banana leaves placed over copper plates. All ingredients are locally sourced, and the meals are prepared by village women using clay stoves, giving guests an authentic taste of rural life. This resort remains open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The trip to this place requires booking in advance for groups of 10 or more. The journey involves taking the Mawa-Bhanga Expressway, exiting at Abdullahpur, and continuing through Nimtala Bazar and Birtara Road. Boat Trip on Shitalakshya  For those who enjoy the serenity of rivers, a day-long tour over the Shitalakshya River and adjacent tourist spots can be an idyllic escape. Departures from Shimulia Ghat or Brahmankhali Ghat in Purbachal Sector-4 include trawlers and cruises for hourly rentals. Nearby attractions include Noapara BSCIC Jamdani Palli, renowned for exquisite handwoven sarees, and Murapara Zamindar Bari, a historic mansion in Rupganj of Narayanganj. Read more: How to Visit Kotka Beach at Sundarbans Visitors can also explore the Kanchan Marina and Ostrich Harbor, home to the vintage paddle steamer PS Ostrich, a relic of Bangladesh's maritime history. Jal Kachari Resort Located at Hazratpur in Keraniganj upazila, this blissful hideout offers an unparalleled riverside retreat. Its most enchanting feature is the sweeping view of the Dhaleshwari River.  This resort boasts vibrantly painted red-and-white tin-roofed Praneshwari Cottage and two elegantly designed sunrooms. The Gangchil platform, a floating structure right on the river, provides an intimate space to experience the tranquil surroundings. Read more: Essential Snake Safety Tips for Hiking, Trekking, Camping, and Traveling Guests can indulge in local cuisine enriched with authentic techniques on earthen stoves, savoring traditional flavors amidst the pristine greenery. What’s more? The boat rides allow visitors to enjoy the river's magnificent beauty more joyously. Jal Kachari Resort is just an hour’s drive from Mohammadpur via Kalatia Road. This place is perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet culturally rich getaway.

In a country where public hospitals are often criticised for their inefficiencies, the National Institute of Ophthalmology & Hospital (NIOH) in Dhaka's Agargaon area stands out as an exemplary institution. Despite operating under severe constraints, this government-run eye hospital delivers medical care to approximately 3,500 outpatients daily, a testament to its dedication and resilience. Legacy of Service Established in 1978, the hospital began its journey as the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar 100-bed facility, operating adjacent to the current Shaheed Suhrawardy Hospital. Excitement brews at Dhaka University as Ducsu elections loom It was later expanded to its current capacity of 250 beds in 2006 and formally relocated opposite to the Agargaon Pangu Hospital in 2007. Known as the National Eye Hospital, NIOH is the apex institution for ophthalmology in Bangladesh, offering comprehensive eye care services. Growing Patient Base and Insufficient Staffing The hospital’s transition to a 250-bed facility aimed to address the increasing demand for eye care. However, it still operates with the manpower of its former 100-bed capacity. This includes a shortage of 20 doctors and 40 nurses, compounded by vacant positions for professors due to delays in promotions. Key sections of Dhaka-Chattogram Highway in dire need of renovation Despite these challenges, the hospital serves an unprecedented number of outdoor patients, growing from 500–600 daily under the 100-bed configuration to around 3,500 today. “Dhaka Medical College serves a similar number of outpatients with much larger manpower,” remarked Professor Dr Khair Ahmed Choudhury, the hospital’s director. Patient Experiences Patients acknowledge the quality of care but often express frustration over long wait times. Noor Mohammad, a 30-year-old from Pakundia, Kishoreganj, brought his father, Chan Mia, for treatment. Despite his father’s diabetes, complex kidney disease, and glaucoma, Noor was satisfied with the quality of service, stating, “Although the hospital is overcrowded, the quality seems quite good.” Biman's capability in ground handling at ‘Third Terminal’ under scrutiny Similarly, Rana, an employee of the National Assembly, recounted his experience bringing his father, Kamal Uddin, from Gaibandha for eye surgery. Despite being given multiple operation dates, delays forced repeated visits to Dhaka. “The quality of service is good, but getting a serial number for surgery requires a lot of patience,” he said. Challenges in Surgery NIOH boasts thirteen operating theatres, including two emergency theatres. While 60–80 eye surgeries are performed daily, the high patient volume often results in prolonged wait times. Professor Dr Khair highlighted the need for expansion to meet demand. “If the hospital building could be extended vertically to 10 floors, it could accommodate 500 beds. The current structure already has a 10-storey foundation,” he noted. Healthcare Sector in Bangladesh The challenges faced by NIOH reflect broader issues in Bangladesh’s healthcare system. Despite rapid growth in medical equipment and devices, with a projected market size of USD 820 million by 2025, public hospitals remain underfunded and understaffed. Govt floats tender for 12 grid-tied solar plants in private sector The health expenditure as a percentage of GDP stood at 2.36% in 2021, reflecting a modest increase but still far below global standards. The healthcare industry in Bangladesh is dominated by the private sector, with significant growth in tertiary hospitals and diagnostic centres. As of 2019, the Directorate General of Health Services registered 255 public hospitals, 5,054 private hospitals and clinics and 9,529 diagnostic centres. Bangladesh currently ranks 88th in the WHO’s global healthcare quality rankings, outperforming most SAARC countries except Sri Lanka. Road Ahead The National Institute of Ophthalmology & Hospital exemplifies how resource constraints can be overcome through dedication and strategic planning. But, its ability to sustain this level of service hinges on addressing staffing shortages, infrastructure expansion, and streamlining patient care processes. With proper investment and management, this institution could further solidify its reputation as a beacon of hope in Bangladesh’s healthcare landscape, experts said.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has imposed a ban on rallies, processions, demonstrations, and gatherings at Kamarpur, Abdullahpur, Uttara Sector-10, and adjacent areas along the southern and western banks of the Turag River. The ban was imposed following violent clashes between two groups at the Biswa Ijtema ground in Tongi on Wednesday that left two people dead and many injured. The restriction, effective from 2 pm Wednesday, will remain in place until further notice, according to a public notification issued by DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali. The ban has been enforced under Section 29 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance (Ordinance No. III/76) to maintain discipline in light of the prevailing situation, it said. Joint efforts needed to ensure safe roads and comfortable travel: senior secretary Authorities have tightened security in and around the Biswa Ijtema ground to prevent any untoward incidents following the clashes. A large contingent of the Army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and other forces, along with regular police, have been patrolling the area. According to a statement from the BGB headquarters, four platoons have been deployed in the area.  

Rail communication between Dhaka and other parts of country has restored after nearly three hours of suspension due to demonstration by some temporary workers of railway at Tejgaon. Some temporary workers of Bangladesh Railway blocked the rail tracks at Karwanbazar in Tejgaon in the capital demanding the payment of five months' unpaid wages around 10:45 am on Tuesday. These Temporary Labour Register (TLR) workers  including porters, gatekeepers (traffic/engineering), cleaners, waymen, office assistants, and waiting room caretakers are employed on a daily basis. Joynal Abedin, Officer-in-Charge of Dhaka Railway Police Station, said the blockade was lifted at 12:50 pm and then the  train services resumed.

BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Tuesday said reforms in the country must be carried out in Parliament with people’s mandate through a democratic process. “There is no point in telling us about reforms. Reforms must be implemented through the democratic process with people’s mandate in Parliament,” he said told a discussion. The Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB) organised a programme titled "Martyr President Ziaur Rahman and Today's Bangladesh" at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Khosru, a BNP standing committee member, said if any changes are to be made through reforms in the future, they will be achieved through correction and filtration within the democratic process. CPD emerged as a vital platform for public interest beyond political boundaries, Amir Khosru says “Reforms will continue as it is a democratic process.  Reforms belong to the people of Bangladesh,” he said. The BNP leader also said the party will form a national government with people’s mandate in the near future and fully implement its 31-point reform proposal in Parliament. Speaking at the programme, another BNP standing committee member, Dr AZM Zahid Hossain, said the BNP carried out reforms at different times in line with the hopes and expectations of the people. Amir Khosru optimistic about fair elections under new EC He said BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman initiated the state reforms from the very first day in office to restore order and ensure the country's economic progress. “All the good things and reforms in Bangladesh have come through the hands of BNP. No matter how much others talk about reforms, we must learn from BNP how to reform the country,” the BNP leader said. Dr Zahid called upon BNP leaders and activists to garner more public support for the implementation of the party’s 31-point reform proposal.