United News of Bangladesh

Commerce Minister Khondakar Abdul Muktadir on Saturday said the recent rise in global fuel prices triggered by the Iran-Israel conflict will not affect Eid travel in Bangladesh and there is no possibility of an increase in the prices of essential commodities. The minister made the remarks while responding to questions from journalists at a programme in Sylhet where iftar and Eid gifts were distributed among working-class families. The minister said although fuel prices have increased in the global market due to the ongoing conflict, it will not impact the upcoming Eid journeys of people in the country. Sylhet to be brought under IP camera surveillance to curb crime: Commerce Minister However, he warned that if the war continues for a prolonged period, it could create some pressure on the global economy. “Bangladesh always stands for peace. We hope the war will end soon and peace will be restored in the world.” Responding to a question about the government’s preparations if the conflict drags on, Muktadir said the government has taken all necessary steps to deal with any potential situation. “This government has been elected by the direct vote of the people. To ensure public safety and keep people’s lives normal, the government has made all possible preparations. So there is no reason for the public to be worried.” Earlier, addressing the Eid gift distribution programme as the chief guest, the minister said the promises he made to voters before the election would be implemented gradually. “The problems of this city will also be resolved step by step. I seek everyone’s prayers and cooperation so that I can fulfil the responsibility you entrusted to me by electing me.” Among others, Sylhet metropolitan BNP Acting President Rezaul Hasan and General Secretary Imdad Hossain Chowdhury were present at the programme along with its organiser Shafiqul Rahman Sumon and leaders and activists of the party. Later, the minister attended iftar and prayer gatherings organised by the Bangladesh Sammilito Peshajibi Parishad, Sunamganj Samity in Sylhet, and the Sylhet Metropolitan Police.

The Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) has urged the government to reconsider its decision to raise bus fare by 60 percent amid the coronavirus pandemic. In a message on Tuesday, CAB President Ghulam Rahman said that the increased fare, effective from June 1, is unacceptable considering the current situation. In most cases, the bus owners are charging more and even double the fare from passengers, CAB said. It said most of the people have been struggling for more than two months without any income and hence, there is no reason to burden passengers with extra fare to reimburse transport owners.   CAB said that the government-proposed safety measures and keeping 50 percent seats empty are not going to be followed. The association said the safety of the passengers in the actual context is not ensured and the increased fare is not favouring the passengers. Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) recommended raising bus fare by 60 percent from its previous announcement of 80 percent.