United News of Bangladesh

Dhaka ranked 19th on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 86 at 8:57 am this morning. Dhaka's air was classified as 'moderate', according to the air quality index. India’s Delhi, Pakistan's Lahore and Indonesia's Jakarta occupied the first, second and third spots on the list, with AQI scores of 187, 184 and 181 respectively. Dhaka’s air quality ‘moderate’ this morning When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered 'moderate', 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. Dhaka’s air quality 7th worst in the world this morning 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.  

 Ambassador of France to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy has praised the richness of Chinese culture and the unforgettable experience of the Dragon Boat Festival’s folk culture. On May 30, the Embassy of China in Bangladesh held a special Open Day for teachers and students from the French International School of Dhaka (EFID). She expressed hope that the event would enhance mutual understanding and friendship between China, France, and other nations. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, along with Li Yu, Ambassador’s spouse, Yan Hualong, DCM, Li Shaopeng, Counselor attended the event. Karim Talaouanou, Principal of EFID and more than 150 students and teachers from EFID attended the event. Ambassador Yao Wen highlighted the enduring allure of Chinese civilization and its profound traditions. He emphasized China’s commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind and contributing to global peace and development,while making remarkable strides in Chinese modernization. Ambassador Yao expressed his hope that today’s event would ignite curiosity about the Chinese language and deepen the understanding of China and Chinese culture. Karim Talaouanou, the principal of EFID, expressed his gratitude to the Embassy for its thoughtful arrangements, noting the event’s significance in broadening students’ international perspectives and understanding of Chinese history and culture. The Open Day featured a variety of cultural activities, including artistic performances, Dragon Boat Festival exhibits, and interactive Chinese culture experiences. The Embassy’s women’s group showcased traditional Chinese culture, such as traditional Chinese painting, sugar painting, Weiqi(Chinese Go),Luban lock and Zongzi(rice dumpling) making. The teachers and students of the Confucius Institute at University of Dhaka and the Shanto Mariam-Honghe Confucius Classroom put on a wonderful lion dance performance, and the teachers of the Confucius Institute at North South University demonstrated dough making. EFID students actively participated in the cultural immersion, showcasing their talents in a series of performances that delighted the audience. The event received high praise from students of various nationalities, who found it both engaging and enlightening, fostering a deeper appreciation for Chinese traditional culture. Participants expressed a desire to continue learning about China and to serve as ambassadors of international friendship.  

 The Yunus Centre has issued a detailed rejoinder in response to fresh allegations made by the current management of Grameen Bank against its founder and  Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus. The fresh attack accused Professor Yunus of financial improprieties during his tenure as Managing Director of Grameen Bank in the 1990s, specifically in dealings between GB and Packages Corporation, a renowned printing press in Dhaka at the time that was owned by the Yunus family.  Yunus Centre, which operates as a think tank dedicated to the flourishing of Prof. Yunus’s ideas on fighting and eradicating poverty, circulated a point-by-point rebuttal of each of the allegations hurled by Grameen Bank.   Yunus family profiting from loan for Packages One of the primary allegations is that Packages Corporation Limited, a business entity owned by Prof. Yunus and his family, received a loan of Tk 9.5 crore from Grameen Bank without adhering to the bank's regulations. The Yunus Centre clarifies that the owners of Packages Corporation, including Professor Yunus and his family, did not intend to benefit financially from the agreement with Grameen Bank. The bilateral agreement explicitly stated that the owners would not receive any financial benefits, such as profit shares, rent, or fees.  The objective was to reduce Grameen Bank's printing costs and ensure timely delivery of quality printing materials. The agreement provided Grameen Bank with access to the printing plant free of charge, which was crucial during the bank's rapid expansion.  “Owners just literally handed over the printing plant to Grameen Bank free of cost,” Yunus Centre said. “A new phase of Packages Corporation began when it was no longer under any control of the owners, nothing flowed to the owners.  It entered a new phase, where the owners totally distanced themselves from all affairs of the Packages, including financial affairs.” Benefiting from print orders Another allegation claims that Professor Yunus and his family financially benefited from awarding printing orders worth billions of taka to Packages Corporation at inflated prices. The rejoinder firmly denies this claim, reiterating that the agreement precluded any financial benefits to the owners from transactions between Packages Corporation and Grameen Bank. The Price Fixing Committee of Grameen Bank ensured that prices were always lower than market rates, thus preventing any undue financial gains. Misuse of GB loan facility  It was also alleged that Professor Yunus violated the Grameen Bank Ordinance 1983 by providing loans to Packages Corporation, which should have been limited to landless poor borrowers. The Centre responds that the loans received by Packages Corporation came from the Social Business Venture Capital Fund (SVCF), a donor-funded initiative to support social businesses. Under the agreement, any profit made by Packages Corporation would not benefit the owners. The arrangement ensured compliance with the law, and the loans did not reach the owners. Loan waivers for Packages Grameen Bank accused Professor Yunus of waiving significant sums in unpaid loans to Packages Corporation, thus benefiting himself and his family when they failed to repay them. The rejoinder states that the owners were not involved in the financial affairs of Packages Corporation. No loans from Grameen Bank were given to or reached the owners, making the question of waiver irrelevant. The amount in question, Tk 7,22,000 (7 lakh 22 thousand) was negligible, and not indicative of misuse of power. Unauthorised appointments, use of GB office  Finally, it was alleged that Professor Yunus entered into a managing agent agreement with Packages Corporation without informing the board of directors and appointed bank employees to the corporation, besides using GB office space free of charge  to conduct the activities of Packages Corporation.  Yunus Centre asserts that the agreement with Packages was authorised by Grameen Bank and discussed in multiple board meetings, receiving full support. The use of Grameen Bank employees and resources was necessary to manage the large-scale operation of printing and supplying materials during the bank’s expansion.  In conclusion, the Yunus Centre reiterated that all the allegations against Professor Yunus and his family are baseless and unfounded.         

In a striking display of environmental activism, the Manta fisherfolk community of Barishal took to the rivers on Friday in a resounding call for the cessation of harmful fossil fuel usage and the prioritization of renewable energy investments. The event, organized by YouthNet for Climate Justice – a grassroots youth-led platform, underscored the urgent need for a greener world and a sustainable future through a just transition. As part of the ongoing Renewable Energy Week (May 26-June 1), twelve institutions and youth organizations joined hands with the 'Change Initiative' to orchestrate a series of activities nationwide. The culmination of these efforts manifested in a poignant boat rally held at Bukhainagar River in Tungibaria Union of Barishal Sadar Upazila on Friday. Boats adorned with banners and festoons, manned by Manta and young climate activists, navigated the waters bearing slogans advocating for a transformation in the energy sector. Youthnet for Climate Justice Program and Partnership Coordinator, Md Arifur Rahman Suvo, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "Global warming, fueled by the use of fossil fuels, is exacerbating cyclones, floods, and abnormal seasonal changes. Communities like the Manta, who are among the most vulnerable, bear the brunt of these impacts." The plight of the Manta community, whose lives are intricately intertwined with the rivers, was poignantly articulated by Sardar Md Jasim, their leader. "We earn our livelihoods by fishing in the river, but our catches are dwindling, and the increasing frequency of storms and floods adds to our woes," said Jasim. "Access to electricity is a distant dream for us. With alternative energy sources like solar power, we could navigate the river more safely and efficiently." Youth climate activists echoed these sentiments, urging world leaders to take decisive action in combating climate change and transitioning to renewable energy sources. Ashiqur Rahman Nirab, a young climate activist, emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of solar energy, asserting: "Utilizing renewable energy is not just a necessity; it's a pathway to safeguarding our environment and fostering economic prosperity." As the rally concluded, participants reiterated their commitment to advocating for a sustainable future and called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to embrace renewable energy solutions.

Starting June 1, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) will partially increase food rations for all Rohingya in Cox’s Bazar camps, raising the entitlement from US$10 to US$11 per person per month. This marks the second increase this year and a step closer to reaching the full ration target of US$12.50 by August. In addition to the monetary increase, WFP has included fortified rice in its food assistance since the beginning of this year. Locally procured and fortified, this rice has significantly higher nutritional value than regular rice, containing essential vitamins and micronutrients critical to people’s health and wellbeing. Coverage of this enhanced assistance has already reached 100 percent of the Rohingya population in Cox’s Bazar, said WFP on Friday. In 2023, faced with an unprecedented funding crisis, WFP had to cut its food assistance from the full entitlement at the time of US$12 to US$8, leaving the Rohingya with just 25 cents to meet their daily food needs. While a partial increase was made at the beginning of this year, from US$8 to US$10, consequences of hunger and malnutrition persisted, exacerbating the already dire situation in the camps. By November, 90 percent of the population could not afford an adequate diet, up from 80 percent in June. The nutritional status among children deteriorated rapidly, with the global acute malnutrition (GAM) rate rising to 15.1 percent, exceeding the WHO emergency threshold and the highest rate recorded since 2017. “It is imperative that we return to full rations as soon as possible. Doing so will not only address the immediate suffering but also reduce the strain on other critical programmes, such as protection, health, education, shelter, cooking gas – many of which now face severe funding cuts,” said Dom Scalpelli, WFP Country Director for Bangladesh. To escape the hardships in the camps, nearly 4,500 Rohingya risked their lives at sea in 2023, some 569 of them died or went missing along the journey – the most since 2014. In the camps, the security situation has deteriorated. In recent months, violent incidents occurred nearly daily in the camps, with alleged abductions and forced recruitment of men by military groups being a major concern. On May 24, a large fire broke out in one section of the camps, leaving some 4,000 people homeless. As an immediate response, WFP has been providing the affected households with hot meals and high-energy biscuits. This was followed by Cyclone Remal, which hit the southern coastal regions of Bangladesh two days later, with Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char along its path. Fortunately, no major damage occurred, but WFP and its partners remain on high alert as the monsoon season starts in June. "We thank the international community for their unwavering support. Their efforts at every level, not just in mobilizing funds but also through tireless advocacy to keep the Rohingya crisis high on their governments' political agendas, are the best examples of humanitarianism and humanity. Their support remains critical until a lasting solution can be found for the 1 million Rohingya in Bangladesh," added Scalpelli.

Expressing concern over drug peddling, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said Bangladesh doesn't produce any drugs. Still, it is coming from Myanmar as some people in the Rohingya camps are involved with this. "We are trying to identify them to bring them to justice," he said. The home minister was talking to journalists while visiting Ukhiya Rohingya Camp in the district this noon. Asaduzzaman said weapons are being used in Rohingya camps while Rohingyas are divided into different groups and sub-groups. At the same time, efforts are being made to identify the criminals who are involved in the recent murders that took place in the camps.

Referring to the importance of mountains, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury said preserving these mountains is essential for mankind's survival. The minister said what happens in the Himalayas affects Bangladesh, so if the mountains including Himalayas survive, Bangladesh will survive. Saber said this while inaugurating a photography exhibition titled 'Mountain Memories: Connecting Peaks and People' in celebration of Mount Everest Day at the National Chitrashala Auditorium at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, arranged by the Embassy of Nepal. He said climate change poses a significant threat to mountains, glaciers, and ecosystems. The melting of glaciers affects the biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on the water resources originating from these high altitudes. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need for global cooperation and concerted efforts to combat climate change. "The theme of today's exhibition, "Mountain Memories: Connecting Peaks and People," beautifully encapsulates the idea that mountains are the bridges that connect us across borders, fostering a sense of global community and shared responsibility," he said. Foreign Secretary (Senior Secretary) Masud Bin Momen; Ambassador of Nepal to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari, Secretary of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Salahuddin Ahmed and Curator of the Photography Exhibition Enam Ul-Haque also spoke on the occasion as special guests. The event drew a diverse audience, including dignitaries, High Commissioners, Ambassadors, diplomats, environmentalists, photographers, and students, all united by their admiration for the majestic Himalayas. The exhibition will remain open to the public at the National Chitrashala Auditorium until June 2, 2024, from 11 am to 8 pm offering an opportunity for more people to immerse themselves in the captivating imagery and stories of the mountains.

Eighteen people were hospitalised with dengue fever in 24 hours till Friday morning. Of the new patients, seven were admitted to hospitals in Dhaka city and the rest outside it, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Currently, 110 patients are receiving treatment at different hospitals across the country. The DGHS, so far, has reported 2,853 dengue cases since January 1, 2024. Last year, a total of 1,705 people lost their lives due to dengue, making it the deadliest year on record. The DGHS recorded 321,179 dengue cases and 3, 18,749 recoveries last year.

Seven of thirteen upazilas in Sylhet have been inundated due to the incessant rains and onrush of water from upstream, leaving more than five lakh people stranded. "Around 5,33,202 people are marooned and 42 unions of these upazilas have been affected," a notification signed by the Deputy Commissioner of Sylhet Sheikh Russel Hasan said on Friday. So far 547 shelters have been prepared to accommodate the people. In the meantime, 4,802 people have already taken shelter in these places. According to the sources, Jokiganj, Jaintapur, Gowainghat, Companyganj and Kanaighat are the most affected upazilas. Deputy Commissioner Sheikh Russel said: “We are keeping an eye on the overall situation. Flood victims are being rescued and brought to shelters and relief materials are being distributed among them.” Besides, union-based medical teams have been formed to provide health care in flood-affected areas and dry and cooked food and fresh water are being distributed, he said. “Considering the flood situation, the number of shelters will be reduced or increased.” Meanwhile, the flood situation has suddenly worsened in Beanibazar upazila. The swelling of the Surma and Kushiara rivers have marooned about 20,000  people in five unions of the upazila. “Cattle farms and fish enclosures were washed away. Most areas of Alinagar, Charkhai, Dubag, Sheola and Kurarbazar Union of the upazila went under water.” Shah Mohammad Sajib Hossain, assistant meteorologist of Sylhet Meteorological Office,  said they recorded about 61 millimeters of rain from 6 am on Thursday to 6 am on Friday According to the Water Development Board, the water of Surma River is flowing 99 cm above the danger level at 6 am on Friday (May 31) at Kanaighat Point in Sylhet while the water of Kushiara River in Zakiganj upazila is flowing 209 cm above the danger line at Amalsid point. However, Sari River water is flowing below the danger level at Gowainghat Point. Meanwhile, Sylhet District Disaster Management Committee meeting has been held to tackle the flood situation. Deputy Commissioner Sheikh Russell Hasan visited the upazilas to monitor the situation and look for the affected people. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, Chief Executive Officer of Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) said that the corporation is ready to deal with any kind of situation. Gowainghat Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Touhidul Islam said that 75pc areas of the upazila have been inundated. “We had prepared 56 shelters in advance due to flood forecast. About 300 people have taken shelter till Friday morning,” he added.

National flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines will operate a special flight on Dhaka-Kuala Lumpur route at 7:15pm on Friday for some Bangladeshi migrant workers. The special flight has been arranged following a letter from the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare, the airlines said in a press release signed by Md. Al Masud Khan, manager (public relations). A total of 271 passengers will be carried on this flight, it added. Bangladesh Association of International Recruiting Agencies (BAIRA) representatives will provide the list of names of the passengers and necessary documents to the Biman sales office in Motijheel under the supervision of the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare. The tickets can be purchased in cash following a list provided by BAIRA. Considering the convenience of the passengers, Biman Bangladesh Airlines has fixed the ticket price at Tk 73,616 per person.