United News of Bangladesh

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked 12th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 153 at 9:21 am this morning (January 06, 2026). The capital's air was classified as ‘unhealthy’, according to the AQI index. India’s Delhi, Egypt’s Cairo, India’s Kolkata and Pakistan’s Lahore occupied the first, second, third and fourth spots on the list, with AQI scores of 215, 192, 181 and 174, respectively. An AQI score between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’, usually prompting sensitive individuals to limit prolonged outdoor exertion. A score between 101 and 150 is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, 150 to 200 is ‘unhealthy’, 201 to 300 is ‘very unhealthy’, and a reading of 301 or more is considered ‘hazardous’, posing serious health risks to residents. Read more: Adviser Rizwana calls for effective regional action to combat trans-boundary air pollution 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. Read more: What is Carbon Trading? How does it work? As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

A daring jewellery heist in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur neighbourhood has reignited concerns over worsening public security in one of the capital’s most crime-prone areas, where police say organised gangs and repeat offenders are operating with increasing confidence. Police said burglars early Monday (January 05, 2026) broke into New Rana Jewellers at Chandrima Bazar, escaping with 70 bhori of gold, 600 bhori of silver and Tk 4 lakh in cash, according to police and the shop owner. The estimated value of the stolen gold was said to be Tk 1.54 crore, while the silver is valued at around Tk 21.6 lakh. Elderly woman killed, valuables looted in Bogura burglary

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital of Bangladesh, ranked eighth on the list of cities with the worst air quality, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 159 at 8:57 am on Monday (January 05, 2026). The capital’s air was classified as “unhealthy,” according to the AQI. India’s Kolkata and Delhi, China’s Shanghai, and Afghanistan’s Kabul occupied the first, second, third and fourth positions on the list, with AQI scores of 189, 184, 178 and 177 respectively. An AQI score between 50 and 100 is considered “moderate,” usually prompting sensitive individuals to limit prolonged outdoor exertion. A score between 101 and 150 is considered “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” 151 to 200 is “unhealthy,” 201 to 300 is “very unhealthy,” and a reading of 301 or more is considered “hazardous,” posing serious health risks. The AQI is an index for reporting daily air quality. It indicates how clean or polluted the air in a city is and highlights the associated health effects. In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ozone. Dhaka's air quality turns `unhealthy for sensitive groups’ Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution. Its air quality typically worsens during winter and improves in the monsoon season. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes an estimated seven million deaths worldwide each year, mainly from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.

Vehicular movement in Farmgate and adjacent areas remained suspended since Sunday morning (January 04, 2026) as students of Tejgaon College blocked road demanding punishment of those involved in the killing of their fellow Sakibul Hasan Rana. Witnesses said some students of Tejgaon College took to the street around 10 am and blocked the road demanding arrest and punishment of those involved in the killing of Rana. Tejgaon division Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rakib Khan said no one involved in the killing of Rana would be spared. Read more: SAD leader Mahdi Hasan granted bail in Habiganj “We have arrested two people in this connection. DB police are investigating the case. Police are trying to identify those involved in the murder after analysing CCTV footage,” he said. Earlier on December 6, Sakibul Hasan Rana, 18, an HSC second-year student and some of his friends had an altercation with some people as they were taking drugs on the roof of a dormitory of the college.

The curtain rose on the 30th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) on Saturday as Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin formally inaugurated the month-long event at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Center (CBFEC) in Purbachal, Rupganj. Describing the fair as a landmark in the country’s commercial journey, the commerce adviser said the Dhaka International Trade Fair is not merely a product exhibition but a comprehensive showcase of Bangladesh’s entrepreneurship, innovation and overall trade development. “The 30th edition of the Dhaka International Trade Fair is a milestone in the history of Bangladesh’s trade and commerce. It reflects our progress in business, industry and economic development, while highlighting our capacity to diversify production—from traditional handicrafts to modern, technology-driven products,” he said while addressing the opening ceremony in the morning. Bashir Uddin noted that Bangladesh has emerged as an important partner in global trade.  He said the core objectives of organising the international trade fair include export product development and diversification, access to new global markets, strengthening market connectivity, enhancing economic diplomacy, expanding international cooperation, improving the country’s global image and attracting foreign investment to achieve sustainable economic growth. He said  the fair plays a vital role in strengthening Bangladesh’s brand image and creating a positive perception of the country in the global arena. Highlighting the long-standing role of the fair, the commerce adviser said DITF has consistently served as a platform connecting producers with consumers, entrepreneurs with investors, and Bangladesh with the global marketplace. Referring to post-LDC graduation challenges, the adviser said that to sustain export growth, product development, diversification and exploration of new markets are crucial strategies. In this context, he mentioned that the first-ever “Global Sourcing Expo 2025 Dhaka” was organised at the same venue from December 1 to 3 last year, which helped introduce Bangladesh’s production and export capabilities to local and international buyers, visitors and importers.  Similar initiatives will continue once or multiple times a year, he added. Commerce Adviser underscored the pivotal role of entrepreneurs in making the trade fair successful.  Through showcasing quality, innovation and competitive strength of their products and services, entrepreneurs help project a positive image of the country, he said, adding that direct interaction with buyers, market analysis, negotiations and order placements enable them to gain tangible commercial benefits. He expressed optimism that participation in the fair would allow entrepreneurs to explore new markets, become familiar with international standards and technologies, and find opportunities for product development—thereby contributing significantly to export growth. Bashir Uddin also said the government is implementing multifaceted programmes to diversify export products. Based on export contribution and potential, various sectors have been declared as ‘Highest Priority Sectors’ and ‘Special Priority Sectors’. To further boost export promotion and incentives, one product is declared annually as the ‘Product of the Year’ to encourage its production and marketing.  “For 2026, ‘Paper and Packaging Products’ have been declared as the Product of the Year,” he announced. Originally scheduled to open on January 1, the inauguration of the trade fair was deferred to January 3 following the government’s declaration of three days of national mourning over the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. This year’s fair has banned the use of polythene bags and single-use plastics. As an eco-friendly alternative, shopping bags will be supplied at subsidised rates through the Ministry of Jute and Textiles. According to the layout plan, a total of 324 pavilions, stalls and restaurants have been allocated to local manufacturers, exporters, general business entities and foreign companies participating in the fair.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked eighth on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 163 at 9:15 am this morning (January 03, 2026). The capital's air was classified as ‘unhealthy’, according to the AQI index. Afghanistan’s Kabul and India’s Kolkata and Delhi and Egypt’s Cairo occupied the first, second, third and fourth spots on the list, with AQI scores of 429, 244, 235 and 179 respectively. ‘Unhealthy’ air quality persists in Dhaka An AQI score between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’, usually prompting sensitive individuals to limit prolonged outdoor exertion. A score between 101 and 150 is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, 150 to 200 is ‘unhealthy’, 201 to 300 is ‘very unhealthy’, and a reading of 301 or more is considered ‘hazardous’, posing serious 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. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections. Read more: Air pollution: 5 ways to protect yourself from poor air quality

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest beside her husband and late President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital, following her namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Wednesday afternoon (December 31, 2025). “We, the Standing Committee, have decided that her Janaza will be held tomorrow (Wednesday) at 2:00 pm at the field of the South Plaza of the Parliament House and across the entire area of Manik Mia Avenue,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the BNP Standing Committee at the Chairperson’s Gulshan office on Tuesday, he also said the Khatib of the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque will lead the Janaza. Read more: Preparations underway at Manik Mia Avenue for Khaleda Zia’s funeral Fakhrul said BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan will conduct the Janaza proceedings. Following the Janaza, he said, Khaleda Zia will be buried beside the grave of Ziaur Rahman, Bangladesh’s proclaimer of independence, and introducer of multi-party democracy, popularly known as ‘Rakhal Raja’. Fakhrul urged all those intending to join the janaza to maintain strict discipline during the janaza and burial, requesting that no one disrupt the ceremony or move forward for photographs, and emphasised the importance of showing respect and preserving the solemnity of the occasion. He also called for prayers to the Almighty Allah for Khaleda Zia’s soul, seeking that she be granted a place in Jannah. The BNP leader also urged all to pray that Allah gives the Zia family, especially her eldest son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, the strength to fulfill the responsibilities for the country and bear this grief. Read more: Condolences pour in for Khaleda Zia as nation mourns Fakhrul said the government has already declared three days of mourning, with tomorrow announced as a holiday. “You also know that the Prime Adviser has spoken to the nation, and we thank the government for their full cooperation.” Besides, he said, BNP has declared seven days of mourning. “During these seven days, we will wear black badges and raise black flags. Prayers and Quran recitations will be held at all party offices.” Earlier, the BNP Standing Committee held a meeting at the Chairperson’s Gulshan office, chaired by Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. After being under medical treatment for over a month, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia passed away at Evercare Hospital at 6 am on Tuesday. Read more: Curtain falls on a political giant as Khaleda Zia passes into history

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked 30th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 93 at 9:10am this morning (December 30, 2025). Today’s air was classified as ‘moderate,’ referring to a light health threat, according to the AQI index. India’s Delhi, China’s Wuhan and India’s Kolkata occupied the first three spots on the list, with AQI scores of 298, 188 and 183 respectively. Read more: Air pollution: 5 ways to protect yourself from poor air quality When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious 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. Read more: How to Reduce Air Pollution in Bangladesh? As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Police detained a youth with a toy pistol from behind the stage of Inqilab Mancha sit-in programme in the capital’s Shahbagh on Monday evening (December 29, 2025). Police said several people spotted the youth behaving suspiciously behind the stage of the rally and held him before handing him over to police. Read more: Inqilab Moncho's Shahbagh blockade continues demanding justice for Hadi A pistol-like object was recovered from his possession, and he was immediately taken to Shahbagh Police Station. According to the National ID card recovered from him, the detainee was identified as Md Arafat Zaman, a resident of Jigatola. Shahbagh Police Station Officer-in-Charge Moniruzzaman said the object recovered from Arafat was verified as a toy pistol. “He has been kept in police custody for questioning. During primary interrogation, he claimed he used the toy pistol for playing at home and brought it out today by mistake,” the OC said. Read more: Hadi murder case to be tried under current govt: Home Adviser

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman visited the party’s central office at Nayapaltan on Monday afternoon (December 29, 2025) for the first time in 19 years since 2006, amid a warm welcome from thousands of party leaders and activists. He arrived at the office around 4:05pm and spent about three hours and 15 minutes there before leaving for Evercare Hospital to see his ailing mother. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, along with other senior party leaders, received Tarique and escorted him into the office. After entering the building, Tarique Rahman came out onto the second-floor balcony, waved to the gathered supporters and delivered a brief speech. Read more: Khaleda Zia’s condition turns extremely critical, say physicians He later went to his designated chamber on the second floor of the building. The room has been newly set up. Rizvi, along with some other leaders, greeted him there with a bouquet. Talking to reporters after Tarique left the office, Rizvi said their Acting Chairman exchanged greetings and views with leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, as well as the office staff. He said although the party did not ask people to gather at the office, thousands of BNP leaders and activists spontaneously thronged Nayapaltan after hearing news of his possible visit, creating an unprecedented scene and showing their love for their leader. Rizvi said the massive presence of leaders and activists sent a message that people continue to show strong affection for a leader who has not deviated from the people’s hopes and aspirations. The BNP Acting Chairman also offered Asr and Maghrib prayers at the office, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. Earlier, as news spread that Tarique would visit the BNP central office, party leaders and activists began arriving at Nayapaltan from noon. By around 3:30pm, the entire road in front of the party office turned into a large gathering, with thousands of supporters filling the area. Security personnel faced serious difficulty in bringing his vehicle close to the office due to the huge crowd. When his motorcade reached the front of the central office, leaders and activists welcomed him with loud applause and slogans. Tarique waved back to acknowledge their greetings. Ahead of the visit, security was tightened in and around the Nayapaltan office. The main gate of the office was closed from 12:35pm on Monday, while only some senior BNP leaders were allowed to enter the premises. Read more: Tarique’s nomination papers submitted for Dhaka-17, Bogura-6 seats Earlier on Sunday, Tarique visited the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office around 1:40pm and stayed there for nearly nine hours. During the visit, he signed party nomination papers and held several meetings on organisational and political matters. Like the Gulshan office, a separate chamber has also been prepared for the Acting Chairman at the Nayapaltan central office.