United News of Bangladesh

The government of Bangladesh has taken a project aimed at strengthening the resilience and livelihoods of poor and marginal communities in Cox’s Bazar, one of Bangladesh’s most disaster-prone districts,  through sustainable, nature-based solutions. The project, titled “PRO-ACT Bangladesh – Resilience Strengthening through Agri-Food Systems Transformation in Cox’s Bazar,” will be implemented by the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) under the Ministry of Agriculture and is set to run until June, 2028. With an estimated cost of Tk 53.01 crore, fully funded by foreign grants, the project seeks to improve food and income security, promote sustainable agriculture, and reduce disaster risks in four upazilas — Cox’s Bazar Sadar, Ramu, Ukhiya, and Teknaf. Under the initiative, 10,000 farmers will receive training and input support to cultivate nutrient-rich crops, while 600 families involved in aquaculture will be trained in modern fish-farming techniques. Besides, 1,050 farmers will be supported in toxin-free dry fish processing including branding and market access development. Read more: Access to credit for agri sector can enhance food security: Bangladesh Bank Governor The project also envisions creating five agricultural aggregation centres to boost market connectivity and promote ICT-based agricultural extension services. Local service providers and farmers’ groups will be trained on financial literacy, digital tools, and business planning to improve access to agricultural credit and strengthen value chains. To enhance disaster preparedness, communities will receive training on the Landslide Early Warning System (LEWS) and crop-based land use maps will be developed to integrate disaster risk reduction into agricultural planning. According to the Planning Commission, the project will play a pivotal role in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and addressing the environmental degradation worsened by the Rohingya refugee influx — including deforestation, land erosion, and waterlogging. Funded by the European Union and implemented in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Forest Department, and Department of Fisheries, PRO-ACT Bangladesh focuses on restoring ecosystems and strengthening the adaptive capacities of vulnerable populations. With a target to reach more than 54,000 beneficiaries, including smallholder farmers, women, and marginalised groups, the initiative aims to transform Cox’s Bazar’s agri-food systems through climate-smart agriculture, sustainable resource management, and inclusive economic opportunities. Officials said the project aligns with Bangladesh’s long-term climate adaptation goals and underscores the government’s commitment to building a resilient future in the face of worsening climate challenges. Read more: Bangladesh's food security at risk as farmland shrinks by 3.75 percent in 8 Years: BBS Survey Cox’s Bazar is facing frequent exposure to a wide range of natural hazards and extreme weather conditions such as cyclones, heavy rainfall, landslides, flash floods and  storm surges. In recent years, the district has been particularly vulnerable to recurring landslides and cyclones. The severity of these disasters is worsened by widespread poverty and the limited coping capacity of local communities — with about 33 percent of the district’s population living below the poverty line, according to UNDP. Since 2017, Cox’s Bazar has also hosted around one million Rohingya refugees, which has significantly increased the population at risk. The influx has contributed to new environmental and safety challenges, including deforestation, hill-cutting, and mounting pressure on infrastructure. Because of overcrowded settlements, hilly terrain, and temporary housing conditions, Rohingya families are particularly susceptible to severe weather events. Read more: Dream project derails; Khulna-Mongla railway struggles without freight flow

Five members of a family were killed and two others injured in a head-on collision between a passenger bus and a microbus in Chakaria upazila of Cox’s Bazar district on Wednesday (5th November 2025). Four women and one child are among the deceased but their identities could not be ascertained immediately, police said. Officer-in-charge Mehedi Hasan of Malumghat Highway Police Station said the accident occurred around 9am on the busy Cox’s Bazar-Chattogram highway to the south end of Fashiakhali Hasher Dighi Army Camp in Malumghat area under the upazila. 2 women among 5 killed in Noakhali road accident The Chattogram-bound bus of ‘Marsa Paribahan’ collided with the Cox’s Bazar-bound microbus, leaving two dead on the spot and five others injured, he said. The injured were taken to a nearby hospital where physicians declared three dead, the OC said, adding that the rest injured are undergoing treatment at the hospital. Details of the accident are still awaited, the police officer added. Read more: Highway horror under Cumilla region; 525 killed in 9 months

Undeterred by infrastructural and administrative challenges, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is pressing ahead with its plan to begin overseas flights from Cox’s Bazar International Airport by the end of July. Although nearly 40 percent of the airport’s expansion work remains incomplete and complications persist over land acquisition, eviction of thousands of residents, funding shortfalls, and a lack of clearance from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), CAAB has reportedly begun preparatory work to facilitate international operations. According to CAAB sources, the decision to move forward was taken at a special meeting chaired by the then CAAB Chairman on April 21 this year. Ongoing Challenges · Construction of the airport terminal building is still nine months away from completion. · Around 3,300 families continue to reside on airport land and have yet to be evicted. · Acquisition of 4.64 acres of essential land remains pending. As ICAO approval has neither been sought nor granted, launching international flights would technically breach global aviation norms. Although an additional expenditure of nearly Tk 100 crore has been incurred, the government has yet to release the funds. CAAB is currently lobbying top government officials to address the issue. Infrastructural Progress  Notably, of the 1,700-foot runway extension into the sea, 1,300 feet lies over water—96 percent of this extension and 94 percent of the protective embankment have been completed. Ctg airport flight operations halted for 2 hours after Biman glitch Installation of the precision approach lighting system and a steel bridge is 83 percent finished, while drainage infrastructure stands at 55 percent. However, only 26 percent of the perimeter wall and patrol roads have been completed. Upon full completion, the airport runway will expand from its existing 9,000 feet to 10,700 feet. Future Prospects The airport will feature a state-of-the-art Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) system enabling safe night-time operations. Its architectural design includes illuminated pavements, flood management infrastructure, and aesthetic lighting along the seafront. Recently transferred CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman told UNB, “We are working with determination for the country’s development. Even though some tasks are pending, we are trying to launch international flights soon. Hopefully, we will be able to do so within a short period.” He went on to say, “Efforts to upgrade Cox’s Bazar Airport to international standards are underway. Despite some infrastructural and administrative challenges, we are working under the Prime Minister’s directive to launch international flights as soon as possible.” Highlighting the urgency of the project, the former chairman said, “The terminal building, runway extension, security infrastructure and lighting systems are all progressing rapidly. An advanced AGL system will be installed for night operations, meeting international standards.” Turkish Airlines flight makes emergency landing at Dhaka airport “Over 3,000 families still need to be evicted and some crucial plots are pending acquisition. However, we are coordinating with the relevant agencies on these matters. Though project costs have risen, and Tk 100 crore remains due, the government is assisting us. We hope the funds will be released soon,” he added. “We are committed to overcoming any challenge and turning Cox’s Bazar Airport into an international-standard facility. It will serve not only the tourism industry but also act as a key hub for regional connectivity,” he added. Project Background The initiative to transform Cox’s Bazar Airport into a regional hub and an alternative air connectivity centre during natural disasters was taken over a decade ago. Delays, delays in land acquisition and eviction, financial constraints, and planning inconsistencies have hampered timely execution. Project Cost The estimated cost of the project is Tk 1,794.31 crore, entirely financed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh.

Cox’s Bazar, the world’s longest natural sea beach is witnessing a massive surge in tourists as the extended Eid-ul-Fitr holidays bring in thousands of visitors. The sandy shores of Laboni Point, Sugandha Point, and Kolatoli Point are teeming with holidaymakers, creating a vibrant carnival-like ambiance. Tourists are indulging in various beach activities—some riding the waves on jet skis, others floating on inflatable tubes, while families and friends relax under colorful umbrellas, savoring the tranquil ocean breeze. Hotels Nearly Full Booked Abul Kashem Sikder, President of the Cox’s Bazar Hotel, Motel, and Guesthouse Owners’ Association, said around 90% of accommodations in more than 500 hotels, motels, and resorts were booked in advance. Sylhet braces for 15 lakh tourists this Eid amid booming business prospects “Our establishments can host up to 187,000 guests per day, and the demand is exceptionally high this Eid season,” Sikder said. Robin, a tourist from Dhaka, said Cox’s Bazar is the top destination for Eid holidaymakers as it offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation by the sea. Enhanced Safety Measures for Tourists To ensure a safe beach experience, the Sea Safe Lifeguard organisation has deployed 27 trained lifeguards at Sugandha, Kolatoli, and Laboni Points—the busiest sections of the beach. Imtiaz Ahmed, Field Team Manager of Sea Safe Lifeguard, said, “Our teams are on high alert, and we are running awareness campaigns to prevent accidents during sea bathing.” Sajek, Khagrachhari open to tourists after month-long restriction Additional DIG Apel Mahmud of Cox’s Bazar Tourist Police said help desks have been set up at key points, and patrols have been intensified in coordination with district police to ensure security. “Our goal is to ensure that every tourist enjoys a safe and hassle-free vacation and returns home with happy memories,” he added.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres arrived at the Rohingya refugee camp in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, as part of his visit to Bangladesh. He is set to participate in various programmes throughout the day, engaging with refugees and humanitarian organisations. Count on UN to help build sustainable, equitable future for all: Guterres tells Dr Yunus Later in the day, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus is expected to visit the camp before iftar to join the UN chief. Their discussions are likely to focus on the ongoing challenges faced by Rohingya refugees and the support needed for their well-being.

A man was killed and over 50  people were injured during an “attack  by miscreants” at Samity Para near the Bangladesh Air Force base in Cox’s Bazar on Monday. The deceased was identified as Shihab Kabir Nahid, 30, son of former Primary Teachers' Training Institute (PTI) superintendent Nasir Uddin, 30, said Ahsan Habib Polash, deputy inspector general of the Chattogram Range of the police.   According to the Inter Services Public Relations, some miscreants launched a ‘surprise’ attack on the Air Force Base on Monday. The Bangladesh Air Force is taking necessary steps in this regard, the ISPR release added. Miscreants attack Air Force base in  Cox’s Bazar: ISPR Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Salahuddin said a man with bullet injuries was admitted to Sadar Hospital who was declared dead by doctors. Besides, five others are undergoing treatment at the same hospital. “A thorough investigation is underway, and discussions will be held with both parties to determine the cause of the incident," he added. Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital superintendent Dr Mong Ting also confirmed the death. Locals alleged that tensions escalated following a dispute over land acquisition for the expansion of Cox’s Bazar airport. Akhter Kamal, a resident of Samity Para area, said a meeting was scheduled between BAF members and representatives of local people at the deputy commissioner’s office to discuss the relocation of affected residents. Around noon, when some locals, including one Md Jahid, were going to attend the meeting, BAF personnel stopped them at a checkpoint near Diabetic Point in the town. An argument ensued between Jahid and the Air Force members, he said. More people gathered there and protested the incident, triggering the clash, he said. Shahjahan, another resident, claimed that during the clash Air Force personnel fired shots to disperse the crowd, leaving several injured. Shihab was later rushed to Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Shihab’s father, Nasir Uddin, demanded justice for his son’s killing, calling for an impartial investigation into the incident.

Country’s first-ever 200-kilometer Coastal Ultra Maratho’ 2025 beginning on Thursday (February 20) at the tourist town of Cox’s Bazar. The three-day Coastal Ultra (Marathon)’ 2025, organized by Voluntary organization Coastal Ultra Bangladesh, with a slogan of “save the sea, save the planet” will be held at the Marin Drive Road of Cox’s Bazar from February 20 to 22.  Dhaka International Marathon a symbol of global solidarity: CAS General Waker-uz-Zaman Ultra Marathon or Ultra Run is a long distance run, 42.20-kilometer more than marathon race and minimum of which was 50 kilometers race. Some 400 foreign and local athletes will compete in four categories of races -–50 kilometers, 100 kilometers, 100 miles and 200 kilometers, under the co-operation of Bangladesh Athletics Federation, Bangladesh Tourism Board and Cox’s Bazar District Administration.

Khulna has become a major corridor for drug smuggling, with traffickers exploiting road and rail networks to transport Yaba pills and other narcotics from Cox’s Bazar to Jashore via Khulna. The ineffectiveness of authorities in ensuring stringent legal action has further emboldened these criminal networks. Due to its convenient transport links, smugglers have increasingly favoured this route, using a variety of tactics to evade detection. Drugs such as Yaba, cannabis and Phensedyl are being trafficked through the district’s border points and discreetly distributed across the country. Although law enforcement agencies in Khulna are actively conducting operations to seize narcotics and arrest those involved, the persistence of drug trafficking remains a significant challenge. Major Drug Seizure in Khulna In a recent operation, law enforcement authorities arrested two people, including a Rohingya national, and confiscated 9,000 Yaba tablets—Khulna’s largest-ever haul of the illicit drug. The detainees have been identified as Touhidul Karim, 25, son of Mozar Mia from Kutupalong Rohingya Camp in Cox’s Bazar, and Imran Khan, 31, son of Shahidul Khan from Keshabpur Upazila in Jashore. During the raid, the Khulna Metropolitan Police (KMP) also recovered four counterfeit Tk 1,000 notes, two mobile phones, and a forged National ID card. Read: Karwan Bazar Railway: The go-to place for illegal drugs in Dhaka Under interrogation, Imran Khan disclosed that Touhidul had rented a house in Ghoshpara, Palbari under Kotwali Police Station in Jashore, which was being used as a base for trafficking Yaba pills. Additional Commissioner of KMP, Kutubuddin, said, “This is the largest seizure of Yaba in our force’s history, surpassing the previous record of 4,500 pills. A fake Bangladeshi National ID card was also recovered from the Rohingya arrestee. We are investigating the sources, transporters, financiers, and masterminds behind the drug trade to take decisive legal action against them.” Key Drug Smuggling Routes Intelligence sources reveal that traffickers smuggle various drugs through the bordering district of Satkhira via Chuknagar in Khulna and from Jashore via Keshabpur, Chuknagar and Abhaynagar to Phultala. Besides, the Jashore-Benapole commuter train is frequently used to transport drugs into Khulna. Satkhira and Jashore routes serve as major transit points for smuggling Phensedyl, Yaba and other narcotics from India into Bangladesh. Authorities have identified Zero Point and Pather Bazar under Khan Jahan Ali Police Station as key drug smuggling hubs. Meanwhile, illicit substances are being transported to Daulatpur and Khulna railway stations using the Benapole-Khulna commuter train. Read more: Sylhet’s Bishwanath sees alarming rise in drug abuse   Women are often used as carriers, concealing drugs within other goods before distributing them across the country through well-organised networks. Persistence of the Drug Trade Despite ongoing crackdowns, many drug traders manage to secure bail and resume their illicit activities. Intelligence reports highlight numerous drug trafficking hotspots, including: Khulna City: 44 points in Khalishpur, 14 in Khulna Sadar, 14 in Khan Jahan Ali, 11 in Labanchara, 10 in Daulatpur, seven in Aranghata, six in Sonadanga and three in Harintana Police Station areas. Surrounding Upazilas: Seven areas in Terokhada, nine in Dacope, four in Paikgacha, two in Koyra, as well as multiple locations in Batiaghata, Digholia and Rupsha upazilas. Shafiqul Islam, officer-in-charge of Sonadanga Police Station, said, “Around 44 buses operate from the Sonadanga bus stand, many of which are used to smuggle drugs to border areas such as Jashore and Satkhira.” He added that a portion of these narcotics enters Dhaka, while others are smuggled across international borders. Read more: Illegal drug, arms trade thrives in Mirpur's Pallabi Alubdi Jhilpar Slum under ex-MP's control The growing use of Khulna as a hub for drug trafficking underscores the urgent need for enhanced law enforcement measures. While authorities continue their efforts to curb the trade, the resilience of smuggling networks highlights systemic weaknesses in enforcement and legal deterrence. Strengthening border security, increasing surveillance on transport routes and ensuring strict legal consequences for offenders will be critical in dismantling the region’s thriving narcotics trade.

Bangladesh and Japanese government have signed an agreement aiming to improve the fish landing centre in Cox’s Bazar. The signing ceremony of the ‘Project for Improvement of Fish Landing Center of BFDC in Cox’s Bazar district’ was held on Wednesday at Bangladesh Embassy in Tokyo. Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) and JDC-KONOIKE Joint Venture signed the agreement and the project will be implemented with grant assistance from the Japan Government. 2 top UAE companies plan to invest in port development, energy sectors in Bangladesh BFDC Chairman Suraiya Akhtar Jahan signed the agreement on behalf of the Bangladesh Government. She sought Japan’s continued support for the development of Bangladesh’s fisheries sector. Bangladesh’s ambassador to Japan Md. Daud Ali welcomed all and thanked the Japanese Government for continuous support and cooperation in the development of Bangladesh. Mentioning that Japan is Bangladesh's largest single development partner, the ambassador said that this cooperation is gradually expanding in various sectors including trade and commerce, agriculture, infrastructure, communication, health, education, and human resource development. He also hoped that the friendly relations between the two countries will become stronger in the future. Saudi Ambassador honored with prestigious "Bangladesh Medal for Diplomatic Excellence" A grant agreement for the project was signed between ERD and JICA on  March 28, 2024 for an amount of 2.294 billion Japanese Yen (equivalent to Tk. 168.48 crore or 15.31 million USD). The project is expected to turn the Cox's Bazar Fish landing Center into modern fish landing facility that will increase capacity and enhance landing ability for the wholesale fish market.

Members of Bangladesh Navy have arrested 19 people including a human trafficker for their alleged attempt to go to Malaysia illegally from Kacchapia in Teknaf upazila of Cox’s Bazar district. Tipped off, a Navy team conducted a drive in the area early Tuesday and arrested them, said a press release of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Bangladeshi, Indian civilians face off along Chapainawabganj border The arrestees were handed over to Teknaf Model Police Station. In line with the current government's directives, under the framework of 'In Aid to Civil Power, the Bangladesh Navy will conduct regular patrol operations to recover illegal arms, eliminate drugs and terrorism and maintain law and order.