United News of Bangladesh

The Depression that lies over central Bay of Bengal may intensify into a ‘cyclonic storm’ by 25th May (Saturday) morning and intensify into a ‘severe cyclonic storm’ by night. Continuing to move nearly northwards, it is very likely to cross Bangladesh and adjoining West Bengal coasts between Sagar Island and Khepupara around May 26 midnight as a severe cyclonic storm, said a special bulletin of India Meteorological Department (IMD). In a bulletin on Saturday morning, Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) said the deep depression over East-central bay and adjoining West-central bay moved north-northeastwards over the same area. It was centred at 09 am today is about 565 kms Southwest of Chattogram port, 495 kms Southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 540 kms South of Mongla port and 490 kms South of Payra port. It is likely to intensify and move northeastwards further. Maximum sustained wind speed within 48 kms of the deep depression centre is about 50 kph rising to 60 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain rough near the deep depression centre. Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant cautionary signals no one. All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.

The depression over east-central Bay and adjoining west-central Bay has moved slightly north-northeastwards and intensified into a deep depression. It was centered at 6 am on Saturday about 635 kms southwest of Chattogram port, 570 kms southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 605 kms south of Mongla port and 565 kms south of Payra port. It is likely to intensify further and move northeastwards. Deep depression over bay intensifies into Cyclonic Storm ‘Midhili’ Maximum sustained wind speed within 48 kms of the deep depression centre is about 50 kph rising to 60 kph in gusts or squalls. Sea will remain rough near the deep depression centre. Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to keep hoisted distant cautionary signal no. one (r) one. Depression over Bay intensifies into  cyclonic storm Michaung All fishing boats and trawlers over north Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice. They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea.  

Dhaka has ranked third on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality with an AQI value of 132 at 8:56 am this morning. Dhaka’s air was classified as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ today, according to the air quality index. India’s Delhi and Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Kinshasa occupied the first and second spots on the list, with AQI scores of 176 and 170 respectively. Dhaka’s air quality 6th worst in the world this morning When the AQI value for particle pollution is 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 uhealthy', 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’s air quality 2nd worst in the world this morning 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.

UNICEF has announced Muhammed Aziz Khan as the incoming Chair of the UNICEF International Council, succeeding the inaugural Chair, Maria Ahlström-Bondestam. Khan will assume the position in November 2024, according to a media release from UNICEF issued on May 24. The UNICEF International Council is a distinguished community of approximately 150 private philanthropists and partners, many of whom are from the world’s leading business families and global influencers. The council aims to optimize philanthropic investments for children by pooling their funding, leadership, and expertise. Collectively, members have invested more than $552 million in UNICEF, supporting children worldwide. UNICEF urges parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated, safe Aziz Khan, founder chairman of the Bangladeshi conglomerate Summit Group, is also the founder and Trustee of the Anjuman and Aziz Charitable Trust (AACT), alongside his wife, Anjuman Khan. Since joining the UNICEF International Council in 2022, Khan and his family have been active contributors. Driven by a commitment to shaping a better future for children, Khan and his family have sponsored schools, built hospitals, and supported projects addressing drug addiction and violence against women and children in Bangladesh. “I am a believer in the power of education – not only for its ability to lift people out of poverty, but as a unifying force for good. I see education as the bedrock of modern civilization and builder of trust amongst humanity and that by enhancing understanding, education has the power to reduce social conflicts and bring more harmony into the world,” said Aziz Khan. Govt with UNICEF accelerates efforts in combating violence against children In response to the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Khan decided to focus AACT's efforts on education, prioritizing getting children back into classrooms and helping them catch up on lost schooling. “The UNICEF International Council has a proven record of delivering a high impact at scale. Having mobilized hundreds of millions of dollars to support UNICEF’s essential work around the world, our trusted philanthropic partners are committed to investing in solutions for children. I am pleased to welcome Aziz Khan as the next UNICEF International Council Chair, and I look forward to working with him to shape a better, fairer future for all children,” UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Kitty van der Heijden said. Under Khan’s leadership, the UNICEF International Council aims to expand its membership by positioning itself as the natural home for philanthropists dedicated to children’s rights. The council will strengthen its role as a convening platform on key global issues, explore bespoke philanthropic journeys and strategies, and find ways to amplify its impact on children's lives through strategic investments in their futures. Council members are dedicated to enabling access to quality education and health systems, building climate resilience, amplifying the voices of youth, and driving action in emergencies. They aim to scale up strategic investments in children to secure the ultimate return: a future where all families and communities can prosper. The UNICEF International Council hosts an annual symposium, thematic working groups, and other engagement opportunities, allowing members to learn from each other, interact with the UNICEF leadership team, and identify areas for collaboration and joint investment. Working closely with UNICEF, Council members seek to address the most pressing challenges facing children worldwide and demonstrate how strategic philanthropy can catalyze solutions and create greater impact for children.

Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International have joined forces in empowering more than 2.35 million marginalised women and youth through "Digital Inclusion: Safe Digital Space for Girls and Youth Project". The initiative aims to enhance digital literacy, skills, resilience and create a safe online environment for the women and youth who often face socio-economic challenges. As a part of this project, a team from Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International made a three-day visit to Savar, Sylhet, Moulvibazar, and Sunamganj on May 19, 20, and 21 respectively, said the organisations on Friday. With a shared commitment to leveraging technology for social good, Telenor, Grameenphone, and Plan International have embarked on a mission to bridge the digital divide and create equal opportunities for all members of society, particularly those who are marginalized. During their visit to Savar, Moulvibazar, and Sunamganj, the representatives engaged directly with project participants, gaining valuable insights into howaccess to digital tools and resources is positively impacting their lives. From enhancing educational opportunities to enabling economic empowerment, the project is fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion in communities that have traditionally been underserved. Moreover, under this project a dedicated effort has been made to bring positive change in the lives of eight marginalized populations: ethnic and religious minorities, people with disabilities, tea garden worker, transgender, people, people affected by climate change (Haor and chor), female-headed household, street children and others as identified by the National Social Security Strategy; by equipping them with digital and online safety skills. The interventions include training on digital skills and online safety through in-person trainings, and awareness for local leaders and youth-led campaigns in the communities, radio programmes. Training content was designed based on the baseline survey and local needs. Training modules are very hands-on mainly driven by customized interactions. Yasir Azman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Grameenphone, Kabita Bose, Country Director, Plan International Bangladesh, Manisha Dogra, Head of External Relations, Telenor Asia, Jolly Nur Haque, Director, Programme Development and Learning, Plan International Bangladesh, Mohammad Sajjad Hasib, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Grameenphone, Sayeda Tahya Hossain, Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO) of Grameenphone, Hans Martin Henrichsen, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer (CCAO) of Grameenphone, Alexander Letelier, Advisor-YEE and Digital Empowerment, Plan International Norway, Johann Yoon - Director of Partnerships & Business Development, Plan International Norway, and Johan Martin, Director, Head of Sustainability, Telenor. Yasir Azman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Grameenphone, said, “I am happy to be part of this program dedicated to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no one is left behind in Bangladesh's journey towards a digitally inclusive society. Our initiative will equip marginalized women and youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's digital landscape, empowering them to seize opportunities and contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond. Kabita Bose, Country Director, Plan International Bangladesh, said, “As a children and girls rights organization, it is our pleasure to partner with Grameenphone and Telenor in introducing a program which addresses a rising issue of online safety and digital inclusion." "Plan International Bangladesh along with its partners aims to work towards equity and equality for all children and youth in all their diversities and this initiative is a milestone for achieving that target. The aspiration and ownership of Grameenphone and Telenor gives us the hope that the generational change we want to bring in Bangladesh is only possible through these multi-sectoral, multi-party effort. We will continue to empower left behind communities through bringing the information, skill and knowledge at their door step.” Manisha Dogra, Head of External Relations, Telenor Asia, said “In today's world where the majority of the population relies on mobile phones for internet access, digital literacy is a critical skill. It's not just about knowing how to use a computer or smartphone; but being able to navigate the online world effectively and safely to access essential services, educational resources, and employment opportunities. By acquiring digital skills, the program participants can have a significant impact on Bangladesh's growing digital economy. These skills empower marginalized communities to actively participate in the socio-economic development of the country”. Alexander Letelier, Advisor-YEE and Digital, Plan International Norway, said “Under the project, till the date, 772,347 people have received training or education on digital skills like mobile operations, online safety, e-commerce, and navigating government services. Moreover, the outreach through community radio has extended to 520,000 people, broadening our impact to even the most remote areas.”

Chief Justice Obaidul Hasan said on Friday that all people have the right to take services of law and their fundamental rights have been ensured in the constitution. "And judges are dedicated to upholding the rights of citizens," he added. The Chief Justice was speaking while inaugurating a restroom called 'NayKunja' for people who come to seek legal assistance at Dinajpur Court this morning. At that time, the Chief Justice emphasized Smart Judiciary for building a Smart Bangladesh. He mentioned that the establishment of 'NyayKunja' in 64 district courts of the country is one of the steps in making a smart judiciary. Bangladesh Supreme Court Appellate Division Justice M Enayetur Rahim, District and Sessions Judge Jabid Hossain, Special Judge Rezaul Karim Sarkar, Bangladesh Supreme Court Appellate Division Registrar Saifur Rahman were present on the occasion.

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anisul Huq was admitted to a hospital in the capital on Wednesday night. He was admitted to Evercare Hospital in the capital due to a urinary infection and fever, said Dr Rezaul Karim, public relations officer of the Ministry of Law. The minister's health condition is improving and he sought prayers for his complete recovery, added the PRO.

Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company (BAPEX) has completed the drilling of well number 8 at Kailashtila in Golapganj Upazila of Sylhet. It is expected that 21 million cubic feet of gas can be extracted daily from the well. The Kailashtila gas field is owned by the state-owned Sylhet Gas Fields Limited (SGFL). The company has informed that the gas gathering pipeline construction is completed, and it will be possible to supply gas from this well within the next three months. SGFL also stated that Kailashtila has a remaining recoverable gas reserve of 1900 billion cubic feet. The gas reserve found in Horizon-4 of well number 8 is 24-25 billion cubic feet, which has been added as a new reserve.  The value of this newly added gas is Tk1,620 crore taka (considering the price at Tk22.87 per cubic meter). Meanwhile, the estimated cost for the drilling work of the well is Tk172 crore.  SGFL Managing Director Mizanur Rahman said that gas was found at a depth of 3,440 to 5,500 feet. Currently, 21 million cubic feet of gas can be extracted daily on a trial basis, and full-scale extraction is expected to begin within three months, he said. The drilling of this well began in June of last year. The Sylhet-10 well was drilled at a cost of Tk149 crore by the Chinese company Sinopec. The authorities of Sylhet Gas Fields have reported that the well contains approximately 50 billion cubic feet of gas reserves.

The government has adopted a zero tolerance policy against offenders, Awami League (AL) General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said on Friday. "Wrongdoers must be brought to justice no matter how influential they are," he warned. Quader said while exchanging views with journalists at the AL's central office in the capital's Bangabandhu Avenue. He said no matter how influential a person is, he or she can commit crimes. The question is whether the government has shown its honesty and courage to bring them to justice, he added. The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has that courage and no offender would be spared, he said. He said the country's judiciary and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) are independent and if someone is found to be a criminal there, the government will not give protection to the person even if he is a former inspector general of police (IGP) or former army chief. "Anyone found involved in wrongdoings will be brought to justice," he warned Regarding BUET student Abrar murder, Quader said those who were convicted were all Chhatra League men but the government did not give them protection. The government did not give protection to anyone too after Biswajit's murder, he said, adding: "A person can commit crimes. But why will the government give him or her protection? We consider offenders as offenders no matter how powerful he or she is. If a person commits offenses, he or she must be punished." Referring to a statement of BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir that the ruling AL government is running misrule and oppression, Quader said Mirza Fakhrul's mental trauma seems to have reached a terrible level. "Fakhrul and his party men are far away from the reality. They failed in movement. They have lost all," he said. Obaidul Quader said that no ordinary citizen faced jail-oppression-harassment during the reign of Awami League government and said that those who killed the police and set fire to the police hospital were criminals. They were for their involvement in terrorism, arson not as BNP men, he added. Awami League General Secretary said that BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir gave a statement on behalf of a Chapainawabganj  Jatiotabadi Sessasebok Dal leader after he was arrested with weapons. “The practice of BNP on behalf of murderers is still going on. All BNP leaders are out of jail. So who is torturing them? Obaidul Quader posed a question. Quader said over 42 percent of the country's people cast their votes in the last general elections and this rate is satisfactory compared to other countries. In the 15 February elections held during the BNP regime, the BBC reported that its voter turnout was only 5 percent, while the then Election Commission (EC) reported that the turnout was 21 percent, he said. In the first phase of the upazila elections, the AL general secretary said, the EC reported that the voter turnout was more than 36 percent, while over 37 percent in the second phase. Obaidul Quader said, “We are running the country with the mandate of people. BNP is making nonsense statements like a lost wayfarer.”

The fixed income group, usually drawing salaries from a job, and large swathes of the middle class are facing an uncomfortable situation in the kitchen market, as minimum prices of vegetables at Tk 50, and fish or chicken a minimum Tk 230 per kg. Visiting different kitchen markets and talking with the consumers, the correspondent gathered experienced that people are cutting consumption of protein to adjust with inflationary price hike. Tabibur Rahman, a private job holder who draws a monthly salary of Tk52000, lives with five members of his family (wife, 2 children and mother) at Tejkunipara of Tejgaon in the capital. Prices of egg, chicken and fish up while vegetables stable at higher rate Talking with UNB at Karwan Bazar on Friday, he said that he has been avoiding chicken, beef and costly fish items since Eid-ul-Fitr,  as the prices of these items are on a rising trend. To maintain family expenditure with the salary he has to almost completely forego animal and fish protein. Moreover, utility bills, medicine cost for an old aged mother and education cost of his two children also shot up. So Tabibur was forced to change food consumption habit to maintain his family expenditures. He is depending for protein on pangash, eggs and other low-cost items. Several service holders like Tabibur echo the same experience as him. However, prices of green chilli, vegetables, eggs and chicken were up pretty steeply  Friday in the kitchen market of the capital. Prices of meat, chicken, and fish soar while vegetables and fruits decrease on Friday The price of green chilli increased by Tk100 per kg, selling at Tk200 to 220 per kg on Friday. The green chilli was sold at Tk80 to 100 per kg in the first week of this month. Egg prices remained on a rising trend since the beginning of this month, selling at Tk 165-170 per dozen on Friday in the capital -an increase of Tk30 per dozen this month. Eggs from domestically-reared hens are selling at Tk 85-90 per hali (4 pieces), and duck's eggs were selling at Tk 75-80 per hali. The price of broiler chicken and Pakistani origin Sonali chicken have increased by Tk10 to 20 per kg in the last two weeks. Broiler chicken was selling at Tk 220 to 240 per kg based on size and quality. Apart from this, the price of Sonali chicken has also increased and is being sold at Tk 360 to 370 per kg based on size and quality. Similarly, cock chicken is being sold at Tk 370 to 390 per kg, layer chicken at Tk 300 to Tk350 per kg, and indigenous (desi) chicken at Tk 670 to Tk 765 per kg. Prices of all types of meat and chicken up while vegetables remain stable on Friday The traders of the concerned sectors said that prices of chicken increased due to price hikes of chicken food and chicks. Besides, the ongoing heat wave also affected chicken farms, which also impacted on price hike.  Beef was selling between Tk 750 to 780 per kg on Friday based on quality, and saw a raise of price by Tk 30 per kg than other days of the week. Mutton and goat meat was selling at Tk1000 to 1180 per kg based on quality, which saw an increase of Tk 50 per kg. Hilsha weighing about 450 gram was selling at Tk650 per kg while Hilsha weighing 1kg-plus were selling at Tk 1800 to 2000 per kg at Karwan Bazar fish market on Friday. Hilsha weighing 700 to 800 grams were selling at Tk 900 to 1000 per piece. Fish like Ruhit and carp were selling between Tk 300 to 450 per kg based on size and quality. Riverine small fish were selling at Tk400 to 700 per kg on Friday. Early winter vegetables come as blessings for Jashore farmers Meanwhile, the prices of vegetables have stabilised at a higher rate this time compared to the previous years. Traders blame overall inflation for this higher price. Vegetables including eggplant, okra, drumsticks, string beans, and bitter gourd were stable between Tk 50 to 60 per kg on Friday. The prices of tomatoes have increased as the season is ending. Good quality tomatoes were selling between Tk 60 to 70 per kg. Brinjals were selling between Tk 50 to 60 per kg, while bottle gourd, ash gourd, and cauliflower at Tk 50 to 60 per piece. Local variety of onion was selling between Tk70 to 80 per kg, garlic at Tk180 to 250, and ginger at Tk200 to 280 per kg based on quality. The prices of some other commodities like rice including aromatic rice, wheat, flour, milk, and soybean  have remained unchanged.