United News of Bangladesh

As the mango season brings colour and celebration to Chapainawabganj, a quiet struggle hides beneath the festive mood, often going unnoticed. This year’s harvest in Bangladesh’s mango capital is nothing short of abundant. The orchards are heavy with luscious varieties—Khirsapat, Langra, Amrapali, Banana Mango, and the majestic Fazli—while the ever-popular Gopalbhog has already bid farewell for the season. Markets in Kansat, Bholahat, and Rahanpur are awash with activity, drawing traders from Dhaka and beyond, eager to procure the prized fruit. From dawn till dusk, these trading hubs echo with the sounds of bargaining and the rustle of crates being loaded. Mangoes are currently fetching between Tk 600 and Tk 4,000 per maund, depending on their type and quality. Yet this apparently thriving trade belies the frustration brewing in the hearts of local growers. For all its visual splendour, this season has been fraught with challenges. Adverse weather at the beginning, combined with an extended Eid holiday, transport hurdles, and sweltering temperatures, caused several varieties to ripen simultaneously. This glut in supply stifled prices, leaving farmers unable to reap the rewards of their labour. “Even though the yield is better this year, the prices are badly lower than last year,” lamented Abdur Rakib, a seasoned mango grower from the district. “On top of that, the cost of fertilisers, pesticides, irrigation, and labour has gone up, making it difficult for us to break even,” he said. Natore mango season peaks with high yields; prices remain a pleasant surprise Rakib painted a stark comparison, saying, Khirsapat mangoes, which launched the season at Tk 1,500–1,600 per maund, had sold for Tk 2,900–3,000 at the same time last year. “Now that Khirsapat is almost over, the remaining mangoes in the orchards are very few. If prices were high at the beginning, farmers would have benefitted. Even though prices are improving now, there’s not enough mango left to make a profit,” he said. Elsewhere, Fazli mangoes are being sold at Tk 1,200–1,300 per maund, down from last year’s opening rate of Tk 1,500–1,600. Langra, another beloved variety, commands between Tk 1,200 and Tk 1,400—barely half of the Tk 3,000 some fetched just a year ago. Rakib also pointed to the recent rainfall as another cruel twist in the season’s tale. “The mangoes are developing spots and cracks due to the rain. Farmers are being forced to harvest early out of fear of further damage, and as a result, they are not getting good prices.” Irfan, another grower, echoed the sentiment, blaming both erratic weather and the prolonged Eid holidays. “When farmers were supposed to harvest before Eid, the rains began. When the rain stopped, Eid had arrived, causing market closures for several days. By the time trading resumed, the rain returned, damaging the mangoes.” Mangoes rot as Eid shutdown crushes Naogaon growers He went on to say, “Even though production was good, we’re losing money because of the low prices and rain-damaged mangoes,” added Kabir, another cultivator, his voice edged with anxiety.  

Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka is witnessing a sharp increase in incidents of car part theft, with organised gangs reportedly targeting both parked and moving vehicles across various parts of the city, including residential areas and commercial zones. In recent years, the trend of stealing parts from moving vehicles has also become alarmingly common in Dhaka, particularly during traffic jams and signal halts. This petty yet dangerous crime is catching commuters off guard and raising deeper concerns about urban safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement. Police and residents report that car batteries, side mirrors, wheels, headlights, and fog lamps are among the most frequently stolen parts. Thieves are known to operate even in moderately busy areas under the watch of surveillance systems—often in broad daylight. Law enforcement officials estimate that more than 50 organised groups are involved in stealing and reselling car parts. Most of the stolen items reportedly end up in second-hand markets in places such as Dholaikhal and Bangshal, where they are sold to workshops and garages—often without any documentation. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) acknowledged the rising trend and said they have stepped up surveillance, urging car owners to take precautions and report incidents promptly. Victims and motorists have increasingly turned to social media to vent their frustration, highlighting the frequency of such thefts and what many see as a lack of meaningful follow-up by authorities. In several cases, complainants said police reports were filed but no further action followed. Car owners have been advised by police to install battery locks, wheel nut locks, GPS trackers and alarm systems, and to avoid parking in poorly lit or unsecured areas. The DMP says it has launched awareness campaigns and targeted operations to identify and arrest members of these organised syndicates. Hajiganj Municipality: A town suffocated by its own refuse This spike in theft comes amid a broader rise in both petty and organised crime in the capital, prompting renewed calls for better community policing and expanded surveillance infrastructure. A senior officer from the Detective Branch (DB) of DMP, speaking on condition of anonymity, said nearly 200 complaints of car-part theft were received over the past three months. “These are not isolated incidents,” the officer said. “We suspect at least 40 to 50 organised groups are operating across Dhaka. They use motorcycles or small cars to scout for targets, and some even pose as mechanics or vendors to avoid suspicion," he said. Residents of Dhanmondi, Uttara, Mohammadpur and Mirpur have all reported incidents in recent weeks. CCTV footage from some areas has shown thieves dismantling parts within minutes. Victims voice frustration Many car owners have expressed disappointment over what they describe as a “casual attitude” by police in responding to reports. “It happened in front of my apartment at 8:30 am. The side mirrors were gone by the time I came out,” said Mohammad Faisal, a resident of Bashundhara R/A. “I filed a complaint at the local police station, but nothing happened. They didn’t even ask for CCTV footage," he said. Others spoke of repeated financial loss. “A set of original fog lamps for my car costs over Tk 15,000. This is the second time I’m replacing them in six months,” said Sharmeen Haque, a schoolteacher living in Gulshan. The DMP has urged the public to report such incidents either to the national emergency helpline 999 or via its official complaint portal. Gulistan traffic jam: A hotspot for car part thefts Commuters passing through the busy Gulistan area say they are increasingly falling victim to car part theft, especially during heavy traffic congestion and signal stops. Reports have emerged of valuable exterior components such as side mirrors, windshield wipers, and emblems being snatched in daylight, particularly in areas around Bangabandhu National Stadium, Golap Shah Mazar, Zero Point and the entrances to the underground market. Witnesses say the perpetrators, often in pairs or small groups, take advantage of stationary vehicles to swiftly remove parts and disappear into the crowds. “I was waiting for the signal to turn green near Golap Shah Mazar when two boys approached pretending to sell tissues. One distracted me while the other snatched the left side mirror and ran,” said Sabuj Khan, an employee at a private company. “I only realised the mirror was missing after reaching the office," he said. Law enforcement agencies have acknowledged these thefts and said measures are being taken to increase patrols and improve police response. Transport associations and experts say stolen parts are often resold within hours in nearby used-parts markets, making recovery difficult. Due to the limited presence of CCTV and the chaotic nature of traffic areas, police have recommended vehicle owners install dash cameras and use anti-theft locks for easily removable parts. “I was stuck near the Golap Shah Mazar light for barely two minutes. When I reached my office, I saw the entire mirror on the left side was gone,” said Saidul Islam, a private bank employee. While police stations in Shahbagh and Paltan receive regular complaints, enforcement remains a challenge due to crowding and logistical limitations. Officials, however, said that plainclothes patrols have been increased in high-risk traffic zones. “Public cooperation and video evidence from dash cams can help us identify culprits,” said a senior DMP official.

Once buoyed by a promising harvest, onion farmers in Faridpur—Bangladesh's second-largest onion-producing district—now face financial losses due to a decline in market prices. On Sunday morning, onions were selling for just Tk 1,500 to Tk 1,700 per maund, depending on the variety, at the bustling Ttenthenia market in Saltha upazila.  Similar price levels were observed in other markets in Faridpur town and nearby areas. Farmers say they could only break even if prices reached Tk 2,000 to Tk 2,200 per maund.  With prices falling short, many are unable to recover even their basic production costs. Every market day, starting before dawn, farmers from surrounding villages arrive at Ttenthenia—some hauling sacks of onions on their shoulders, others using vans, three-wheelers, or autos—to sell their produce. Alongside local traders, wholesalers from across the country frequent the market. The Ttenthenia market hosts over 200 wholesale traders who collectively buy between 250 and 300 tonnes of onions each market day.  Relaxed market monitoring post-Ramadan sends onion prices soaring in Khulna The produce is then distributed to divisional and district-level markets across Bangladesh. “At least Tk 1 crore worth of onions are sold in every haat,” said Shahidul Islam Sohan, Chairman of Atghar Union in Saltha.  “Buyers from Dhaka, Chattogram, Barishal and other cities come here, thanks to our strong transport connectivity,” he said. Despite the bumper harvest, farmers are reeling from rising input costs that haven't been matched by corresponding increases in market prices. Local farmers like Nizam Uddin Sheikh, Alamgir Molla, Ibrahim Matubbor, and Nishar Uddin Khan shared that they had initially stored their onions, anticipating higher prices later in the season. “But now the prices are barely enough to cover our costs,” said Nishar Uddin, lamenting that the delay in selling has also led to spoilage and quality degradation. Shaheduzzaman, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Faridpur, noted that the district produces three key varieties of onions: winter-season 'Murikata', 'Hali', and 'Dana'. “Of these, ‘Hali’ onions make up the largest share. This season, onions were cultivated on 38,000 hectares of land in Faridpur, and the yield has been robust,” he said. Traders believe the recent price drop is largely due to a post-Eid surge in supply, overwhelming the market and pushing rates down. Despite being one of the largest onion trading centers in Faridpur, Ttenthenia’s current market dynamics have left local farmers disheartened, as their hard-earned harvests yield more disappointment than dividends.

Kurigram’s Fulbari upazila, once gently connected by a humble bamboo bridge, now stands witness to a daily struggle as residents of eight villages wade chest-deep or swim across the Baromasia (Banidaha) River. A month has passed since the collapse of the 220-foot-long bamboo bridge in Naodanga union—yet no meaningful initiative has been taken to restore this vital lifeline. Upon visiting the Nabiu’s Ghat—also known as Amin Member’s Ghat—in Kishamat Shimulbari, the extent of the devastation becomes painfully clear. The southern portion of the bridge, spanning some 50 to 60 feet, has crumbled entirely, severing a crucial route for thousands. While some villagers brave the waters on foot, others are left with no choice but to swim across the river, their belongings held tightly above their heads. For the past ten years, the bamboo bridge—erected through local initiative as the river gradually narrowed—had served as the only means of passage for the people of Kishamat Shimulbari, Char Gorokmandol, Jhaukuti, Pashchim Fulmati, Naodanga and Hokbazar of Shimulbari union, along with Char Kharua and Kharua villages under Lalmonirhat Sadar’s Kulaghat union. The origins of the crossing date back to post-independence days, when small boats ferried passengers between the riverbanks. Over the years, locals remember crossing through Karim’s, Nabiul’s and finally Amin Member’s ghat—leased points for boat services. But the river’s temperament and shape have changed, and so too have the means of crossing it. The bridge, lovingly patched and rebuilt each monsoon season, finally succumbed last month to heavy currents and the weight of accumulated water hyacinths pressing against its base. “This suffering—there are no words left to speak,” sighed Aher Ali of Kishamat Shimulbari and Nur Islam of Jhaukuti. “It’s been a month, yet no one has taken the initiative to fix it. We cross the river every day with bicycles on our shoulders. No one cares about our pain.” Voices of hardship echo across the banks. “What more is there to say? You can see for yourself,” said Marjina Begum and Jahanara Begum as they trudged through the water, firewood bundled on their heads. Bailey bridge breaks down under coal-laden truck in Pirojpur “Every day, people come and take pictures, but no one does anything to ease our misery. The schools are closed now, but when they reopen, our children will suffer most. We demand the bridge be rebuilt before that happens,” she said. Taslima Uddin of Char Kharua lamented the disruption to daily life. “Hundreds use this route to reach Balarhat Bazaar. Our children study at Naodanga School and Balarhat Adarsha School. This bridge was their path to education.” Schoolchildren like Jewel Rana, Masud Rana, and Hasanur Rahman from Jhaukuti echoed this sentiment. “We’re swimming across for now, but once schools reopen, how will we carry our books and go to class? We are deeply worried.” Even the river’s bounty is now a curse for some. Fish farmers Ataur Rahman Ratan and Mojibur Rahman Babu spoke of the immense trouble caused to their trade. “Our farms lie across the river. We cannot transport fish feed, nor can we sell the fish. Every trip means swimming the river again. This is unsustainable.” Bridge of Frustration: Design woes stall Barguna’s Sonakata Canal Project for four years

Amid a fresh wave of Covid-19 infections across the country, all upazila-level health complexes in Bagerhat district have run out of rapid antigen test kits, leaving local hospitals unable to conduct coronavirus tests. As a result, patients showing symptoms such as fever, cough and body aches are being referred to Bagerhat District Hospital or Khulna Medical College Hospital for testing, sources said. Despite repeated requests sent to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) for testing kits, none had arrived at the upazila health complexes as of Thursday, the sources added.  Meanwhile, the 250-bed Bagerhat General Hospital has received only 150 antigen rapid test kits, which doctors say are insufficient given the current demand. Health experts are urging people to strictly follow health safety guidelines to curb the spread of the virus. The shortage of testing kits comes at a time when public concern is mounting over a new wave of Covid-19 infections and deaths being reported from various parts of the country, with locals expressing anxiety over the inability to access testing services. During a visit to Bagerhat General Hospital on Thursday afternoon, this correspondent found crowded corridors, packed outpatient areas, and a lack of social distancing. People of all ages—men and women—were seen jostling for space inside the hospital premises, with little to no adherence to Covid safety protocols. Several patients reported experiencing persistent fever, headache, cough, and body pain, prompting them to seek medical attention. Doctors provided prescriptions based on symptoms, but testing was not possible in the absence of kits. Patients said they had approached their local health complexes for Covid-19 tests after developing symptoms but were turned away due to the unavailability of test kits. In most cases, doctors resorted to symptom-based treatment. Dr Moni Shankar Paik, Resident Medical Officer (RMO) of Kachua Upazila Health Complex, told UNB that an average of 40 to 50 fever patients visit the complex daily.   "But we are unable to conduct Covid tests due to a lack of kits. We are referring suspected cases to Bagerhat District Hospital," he said. The physician also said his hospital requested 1,000 antigen rapid test kits from the DGHS, but none had been received as of Thursday. Dr Md Shaheen, Health and Family Planning Officer at Mongla Upazila Health Complex, said a patient showing Covid symptoms came to the hospital on Thursday. "We suspect it could be a Covid case, but without testing kits, we couldn't confirm. The patient was referred to Khulna Medical College Hospital for testing and was treated based on symptoms," he added. Two days earlier, another suspected Covid patient was also turned away due to the kit shortage. No vaccine for new Covid sub-variants, 3.2 million old doses in stock Dr Shaheen confirmed that Mongla Health Complex had submitted a requisition for 1,000 antigen test kits to the DGHS on June 10, but no kits had arrived by Thursday afternoon.   Dr Asim Kumar Samaddar, Superintendent of Sadar hospital, said 150 antigen test kits were delivered to the hospital on June 16. However, none of them had been used as of Thursday, due to the need for selective testing amid limited supply. “We are conducting tests only for those with strong indications of Covid infection. For RT-PCR testing, we are sending patients to Khulna Medical College Hospital, Satkhira Medical College Hospital, or Jessore University of Science and Technology,” he said. Dr Samaddar warned that the new Covid variant appears to be more dangerous and has a higher mortality rate. “The elderly and children are particularly at risk. Everyone must remain alert and follow health safety guidelines,” he advised. The hospital has allocated 20 beds for potential Covid patients, and if more kits are supplied, testing will be expanded as needed, he added. Dr ASM Mahbubul Alam, Civil Surgeon of Bagerhat, said that none of the nine upazila health complexes in the district currently have antigen rapid test kits. “We have sent requests to the health directorate from every upazila. Currently, only the district hospital has 150 kits,” he said. Khulna medical prepares 40 beds for COVID patients “Due to the limited number of kits, we are instructing doctors to screen patients carefully before conducting tests,” Dr Alam added. According to data from the district health department, Bagerhat tested 32,714 samples for Covid-19 up to June 2023. Of these, 8,022 were confirmed positive. So far, 144 people have died from Covid in the district, while 7,878 have recovered.

Bangladesh has no vaccine available for the newly detected sub-variants of the Omicron strain of Covid-19, although 3.2 million doses of older vaccines remain in stock with a few months’ shelf life, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Covid-19 infection rates have seen a recent uptick across the country over the past month.  Data from the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) shows that out of 1,409 samples tested in May, 134 were positive — an infection rate of 9.51 percent, the highest recorded from January to May 2023. Genome sequencing of positive samples confirmed the presence of new Omicron sub-variants XFG and XFC, previously undetected in Bangladesh. The DGHS noted that these new sub-variants exhibit higher transmissibility compared to previous strains. Between January and June this year, seven Covid-related deaths were reported — all occurring in the first 17 days of June. Fresh COVID sub‑variant wave hits Bangladesh; experts urge vigilance  Patients are again being admitted to the specialised Covid hospital in Mohakhali, and the demand for tests is rising. This resurgence has prompted questions regarding the availability and efficacy of vaccines.  Despite the rising infections, no new vaccines specifically targeting the sub-variants have been imported and no vaccine committee has yet been formed. Halimur Rashid, Line Director of the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) unit at the DGHS, told UNB, “In total, there are around 3.2 million doses of vaccines. According to the 2024–25 US-CDC guidelines, the available vaccines are applicable for Omicron variants. Besides, the previously used vaccines in Bangladesh can still be administered.” When asked whether any new vaccines have been brought in to tackle the sub-variants, Rashid said, “No new vaccines for the sub-variants have arrived so far. However, the process of procurement is ongoing. A vaccine committee will be formed soon to make a prompt decision.” Despite the rise in cases, public interest in vaccination remains low. “There are various rumours about vaccines that have no scientific basis,” said Rashid, adding, “People can still get vaccinated by visiting designated centres.” Official records show that only 43 people received a Covid-19 vaccine in the first three months of this year, with 7 receiving the first dose, 5 the second dose, 16 the booster dose, and 15 a fourth dose.  Data also indicates that those who have never received any Covid vaccine are the least likely to seek vaccination now. Health authorities maintain that mass vaccination is not currently necessary. Only certain vulnerable groups are being advised to get vaccinated. Speaking at a recent press conference, DGHS Director General Dr Abu Jafar stated that individuals who are frontline workers involved in public-facing jobs and those with compromised immune systems should receive the vaccine if they have not yet done so. Mask prices double as COVID infections surge in Bangladesh He also advised that people over 60, those with comorbidities and those with weakened immunity should take another dose six months after their last jab. In addition to vaccines, the DGHS has already begun distributing detection kits to hospitals nationwide and is preparing hospital beds for potential admissions. When asked whether the current rise in cases warrants public alarm, Professor Mahmuda Yasmin of the Department of Microbiology at the University of Dhaka said, “Although the infection rate is increasing, the situation is not yet alarming.” Experts, however, stress the importance of early preparedness to combat the spread of new sub-variants. They note that with sufficient preparation, both infection and mortality rates can be minimised. According to DGHS data, more than 29,500 people have died of Covid-19 in Bangladesh to date.  Although the fatality rate remains low compared to the number of detected cases, the virus continues to pose a public health concern. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Bangladesh has reported a total detection rate of 13.05 percent, with a recovery rate of 98.42 percent and a mortality rate of 1.44 percent per 100 confirmed cases.    

With summer in full bloom, Natore finds itself basking in the golden glow of a mango season that is as bountiful as it is beautiful.  From the quiet village orchards to the bustling market squares, the district is humming with the sweet scent of ripened fruit, a heady reminder of nature’s generosity and the region’s mango-growing prowess. Often mentioned in the same breath as the famed mango belts of Chapainawabganj, Rajshahi and Naogaon, Natore stands tall with its vibrant offering of both beloved classics and an ever-expanding gallery of exotic cultivars. The markets are alive with colour and conversation.  Glimmering heaps of mangoes — from blushing pinks to sun-drenched yellows — are drawing in buyers from near and far.  Prices, mercifully, remain a pleasant surprise. “This is one of the best years in terms of both variety and value,” beams Liton, a cheerful trader busy weighing baskets of Gopalbhog.  Mangoes here range from Tk 15 to Tk 60 per kilogram, making the king of fruits a daily indulgence rather than a rare treat. Natore's rawhide traders distressed by 10-day entry ban into Dhaka A Market Awash with Mangoes In the heart of the mango trade, Ahmadpur in Baraigram upazila and Tamaltala in Bagatipara are seeing a frenzy of activity.  These two wholesale hubs have transformed into vibrant epicentres, where voices rise above the rustle of mango-laden sacks and the clang of truck gates slamming shut. No fewer than ten truckloads of mangoes leave Tamaltala for Dhaka every day, say traders Uzzal Hossain, Lalon Ali and Mosharraf Hossain, their eyes gleaming with the thrill of brisk business.  Even more make their journey from Ahmadpur, destined for cities across the nation.  At these wholesale centres, a maund of mangoes fetches anything from Tk 500 to Tk 1,500, depending on the variety and freshness. Tradition Meets Tempting Newcomers Selim Reza, a proud recipient of the National Agriculture Award and a lifelong mango cultivator, stands among his trees with a knowing smile.  “Gopalbhog, Langra, Mohanbhog, Lakshmanbhog, Khirsapat, Rani Pochondo and Mallika are ruling the markets right now. But the season has more to offer. Soon, late bloomers like Amrapali, Nag Fazli, Surma Fazli and Maharaj Fazli will arrive,” he shares. There is a quiet revolution taking place in the orchards of Natore. Once known only for traditional favourites, the district is now making waves with mangoes few Bangladeshis have tasted — names like Katimon, Bandikuri, Kyuzai, Totapuri, and the intriguingly named Banana Mango. These rare varieties, grown with care and curiosity, are adding new flavours to the local mango narrative. And there’s more. The NAS hybrids — NAS-1 through NAS-5 — have captured imaginations and markets alike. These large-fruited, high-yielding varieties bring not just impressive sizes but also thrilling textures and flavours. NAS-4 glows round and vibrant, while NAS-5 is loved for bearing fruit twice in a season, a gift few growers can resist. Flavours from Afar, Rooted in Natore Natore’s orchards now tell an international tale. Indian-origin gems like Arunika, Arunima, Hamilton, Arkanilachal, and Ambika are flourishing beside American showstoppers such as Kent, Keitt, and Austin. Thailand’s blushing Red Palmer joins the chorus, creating a truly global mango medley. Local innovations sing their own sweet notes — Gauomoti and BARI-4, proudly developed by Bangladeshi researchers, are flourishing in select gardens and fetching handsome prices on Dhaka’s high-end supermarket shelves and online stores. Even the elusive Ashwini mango, grown only in a few blessed pockets of the district, finds its place in this celebration of variety. Natore’s bio fish feed offers cheaper, safer future for aquaculture A Golden Harvest After Grey Skies Nature had its moments of mischief earlier in the season, with nor’westers and hailstorms threatening the harvest. But the trees stood strong, and the yield tells a story of triumph. Habibur Rahman Khan, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension in Natore, estimates this year’s mango production at around 73,000 metric tonnes.  “Although the season began with some setbacks, the overall yield has been promising. This abundance is ensuring consumers get mangoes at reasonable prices," he says. And so, under the sun-dappled shade of mango groves, Natore’s orchards whisper a sweet secret: that in this land of fragrance and fruit, every bite is a celebration — of tradition, innovation, and the sheer joy of summer.  

Despite increased government investment, the effectiveness of Bangladesh’s social protection programmes continues to be undermined by persistent inefficiencies in targeting, a recent budget document has revealed. The Finance Ministry’s Social Security Budget Report 2025-26 reveals that a significant portion of social transfers still fails to reach the poorest and most vulnerable, raising concerns over mistargeting and inequitable access. “More importantly, mistargeting and inequitable access to social protection programmes further limit their efficacy,” the report states, adding, “Evidence suggests that social transfers are not adequately targeted to the poorest segments of the population.” Noted economists see the proposed national budget as missed opportunities Although the government has introduced digital platforms and data-driven delivery models, gaps remain, particularly in identifying and enrolling eligible beneficiaries in remote and underserved areas. In the 2025-26 fiscal year, over Tk 1.16 lakh crore has been allocated across various ministries for social protection schemes. However, experts emphasise that effective implementation, not just increased funding, is key to programme success. The document highlights that in 2022, half of all poor households received social assistance—up from just 23.7 percent in 2010. This expansion is largely attributed to increased cash transfer and food support during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, inclusion errors remain a concern, with about 22 percent of benefits reaching the wealthiest 20 percent of households, the report notes. While some geographic targeting has prioritized climate-vulnerable coastal districts, disparities remain. “Urban-rural differences in social security coverage add another layer of complexity,” it says. In 2022, the poverty rate stood at 14.7 percent in urban areas versus 20.5 percent in rural regions. Yet, 44 percent of rural households benefited from at least one programme, compared to just 23.9 percent of urban households—reflecting an imbalance that calls for more equitable policy design. The report cites notable growth in major allowances: Old Age Allowance beneficiaries rose by 24.5 percent (4.9 to 6.1 million), Widow Allowance by 41.5 percent (2.05 to 2.9 million), and Disability Allowance nearly doubled (1.8 to 3.53 million). The OMS/FFP programme surged by 57 percent, from 7.8 to 12.25 million beneficiaries, in response to food inflation. These trends reflect targeted allocations, yet also highlight emerging challenges. Mature programmes like the Old Age Allowance are nearing saturation, while rapid expansion in others strains fiscal resources. The ministry calls for differentiated strategies—stabilising mature programmes while accelerating high-priority initiatives—and improving targeting precision to optimise limited resources. The expansion of coverage aligns with demographic trends, particularly the growing elderly population. The government is balancing this with investments in working-age and youth development programmes to maintain intergenerational equity. Bulk of social assistance to be distributed through digital cash transfer under FY26 budget The report underscores that social protection impact hinges not only on coverage, but also on benefit adequacy and accurate targeting. While initiatives like textbook distribution and agricultural subsidies show strong pro-poor targeting, essential safety nets such as old age and food assistance programmes still fall short in reaching the most vulnerable. In 2022, 37.6 percent of all households received social security benefits—up from 27.8 percent in 2016 and 24.6 percent in 2010. Rural coverage reached 44 percent, compared to 34.5 percent in 2016 and 30.1 percent in 2010. Urban coverage also rose significantly to 23.9 percent, from 10.6 percent in 2016 and 9.4 percent in 2010. Overall, 50 percent of poor households were covered by 2022, nearly double the 28.7 percent recorded in 2016.

The Election Commission (EC) has ramped up its preparations for the upcoming national election, following a recent high-level meeting in London with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman. The EC has instructed its officials to promptly complete all necessary tasks so the commission remains ready to deliver the election whenever it is held. Preparations are now underway in full swing, covering updates to the electoral roll, delimitation of constituencies, renovation and repair of potential polling stations, registration of new political parties and revisions to various electoral laws and policies. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Sunday said the EC must be prepared regardless of the election’s timing. “We are now focusing on our preparations. We must be ready to deliver the election, no matter when it is held,” he told reporters. The CEC added that significant progress has already been made regarding preparatory tasks for the upcoming election. BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, during a meeting with the Chief Adviser in London on 13 June, proposed that the next general election be held before the start of Ramadan 2026. In response, the Chief Adviser said he had already announced that the election would be held in early April next year. If all preparations are completed, it may even be possible to hold the election in the week before Ramadan in 2026. In that case, sufficient progress would need to be made by then regarding reforms and the trial, said Prof Yunus. During an Eid greetings event on Sunday last, the CEC urged EC officials to begin work in full swing and discharge their duties with neutrality and in accordance with the law. He said the election schedule is usually announced 55–60 days prior to polling day, and this time too, it will be announced roughly two months in advance. Voter List Update The CEC said field-level data collection for possible voters will be completed by 30 June so that the voter list is ready when the schedule is announced. He said they are considering changes to the voter registration law to allow youths who will be eligible before the election schedule is announced to vote in the next general election. Delimitation of constituencies The EC has begun drafting new boundaries for a number of constituencies, with a primary focus on administrative integrity, alongside considerations of population size, voter numbers and geographical integrity. The commission will soon finalise the draft re-demarcation and publish it to receive and address any complaints. Once resolved, the delimitation will be finalised. Reached a national consensus to hold general election in Feb: Khosru More than 600 applications have been submitted, seeking changes to at least 75 constituencies, with nearly 90% requesting a return to the 2001 boundaries. But, officials said changes will be considered only if the applications have strong merit, and the commission will not touch constituencies where there is no demand for change. Registration of Political Parties On March 10, the EC invited applications from new political parties seeking registration by 20 April. A total of 65 parties applied within the deadline. The commission later extended the deadline until June 22. New political parties are registered under Article 90A of the Representation of the People Order, 1972. If a party is registered with the EC, it can contest the national election with its own electoral symbol. EC officials said the deadline is unlikely to be extended further due to time constraints before the election. They said scrutiny of the applications has already begun to complete the registration process swiftly. Law and Policy Amendment On March 19, the EC approved policies for election observers, foreign observers, and journalists, but has not yet issued them. A meeting on May 21 approved the policy on polling station installation and management, but returned the draft code of conduct for political parties and candidates for further revision. Following the London meeting, the EC has emphasised the need to complete these amendments promptly. Prof Yunus’ London visit very successful: Acting Foreign Secretary The Commission met again on Monday to review the draft code of conduct and plans to publish the revised rules and policies on its website for public feedback. Besides, the EC Secretariat has been directed to take steps to restore the authority of the commission—and that of presiding officers—to halt voting when necessary, through amendments to the Representation of the People Order, 1972. Election officials have also been asked to present a training plan for electoral officers and to prepare a manual for the upcoming 13th parliamentary election. Possible Polling Stations The EC has requested the government to provide progress reports on the repair and renovation of polling stations likely to be used in the upcoming parliamentary elections. On Monday, the EC sent an urgent letter to six government officials, asking them to submit updates on repair and renovation works by July 17. The six officials are the senior secretary of the Secondary and Higher Education Division, the secretaries of the Primary and Mass Education Ministry, the Technical and Madrasah Education Division, and the LGRD and Cooperatives Ministry, as well as the chief engineers of the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) and the Education Engineering Department (EED). Some educational institutions used as polling stations in the last general election, or likely to be used in the next, currently lack boundary walls or have damaged doors and windows. The EC had earlier instructed the relevant ministries and divisions to carry out minor repairs using their own funds. There were more than 44,000 polling stations in the 12th Parliamentary Election (held in January 2024), over 40,000 in the 11th election (December 2018), and nearly 38,000 in the 10th election (January 2014). National election: EC seeks progress reports on polling station repairs EC Additional Secretary KM Ali Newaz told UNB on Tuesday that the commission is set to complete data collection of potential voters by 30 June as part of its ongoing preparations. He added that all other preparatory work, including amendments to various electoral laws, is continuing in full swing.

Once known for its vibrant markets, bustling roads and deep-rooted heritage, Hajiganj municipality in Chandpur now groans under the weight of a crisis it can no longer ignore, a mounting sea of waste threatening the health and dignity of its people. Every day, some 60 tonnes of waste are left scattered across this busy town, not in hidden corners or behind closed gates, but right in the heart of its daily life. Streets, water bodies, bridges and even revered landmarks have become unwilling hosts to piles of filth that emit a stench strong enough to make passersby wince and residents fall ill. The municipality, home to over 100,000 people and a floating population of up to 60,000 more, is among the more developed urban centres in the district. Delays stall Chandpur River Port, locals left waiting Established in 1985 and upgraded to a first-class municipality in 2004, Hajiganj is crisscrossed by the bustling Chandpur–Cumilla regional highway and thrives on trade, education and local governance. Yet, beneath the surface of its economic bustle lies a truth too foul to ignore as there is no designated dumping ground for its waste. A Town Choked by Its Own Growth From early morning to late evening, cleaners under the municipality’s care collect around 30 tonnes of garbage. But that is only half the story. Another 30 tonnes, equally offensive and potentially more dangerous, is dumped haphazardly by residents and businesses alike. Together, this wave of waste surges through Hajiganj daily with no sustainable outlet. The result? Waste now lines key arteries of the town: from the Mithania Bridge on the Cumilla highway, to the Dakatiya Bridge on the Hajiganj-Ramganj road, past the rail crossing on Hajiganj-Kachua road and heartbreakingly close to the historic Hajiganj Boro Mosque. The air is thick with the stench of rot and the acrid smoke from burning refuse, forcing the townspeople to breathe in danger with every breath. Locals voice their agony with weary resignation. “The smell and smoke have made our lives miserable,” said Abdur Rahim and Nasir Gazi from Paschim Bazar, adding, “Mosquitoes are everywhere, and dengue has returned with a vengeance.” Children and the elderly suffer the most. Their fragile bodies react quickly to the polluted air — many coughing, wheezing, or bedridden with fever. CNG driver Nurul Islam paints a grim picture of his daily route, “When we drive along the Hajiganj-Kachua road, the smell of rotting garbage is unbearable. And when it’s set on fire, the entire area disappears in smoke for hours.” Launch operations suspended in Chandpur for inclement weather A System Without a Solution Despite repeated calls for action, the municipality appears cornered. Mahbubur Rashid, the assistant engineer (water and sanitation) of Hajiganj, admitted the bitter truth, “The municipality owns no land to set up a dumping station. We’re still using sites chosen by past administrations.” Current administrator and Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Ibne Al Zayed Hossain assured that efforts are being made to address the crisis. “We’re trying to remove the waste heaps. But for a lasting solution, we need mass awareness and public cooperation,” he said. The situation is worsened by the near-complete absence of clean and accessible public toilets, a silent hardship that especially affects women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. A National Crisis in a Local Shell Hajiganj is not alone in this crisis. A study by the Asia-Europe Foundation shows that more than half of all waste in Bangladesh is dumped in the open. Uncollected and often burned in the open air, this waste poses massive threats — from polluting water sources to clogging drainage systems and exacerbating waterlogging even after light showers. As towns grow and cities sprawl, so too does the tide of waste — unchecked, unmanaged and in many places, simply ignored. Dhaka, the nation's capital, is already counted among the world’s most polluted cities. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) warns that without urgent, coordinated measures, the waste problem will only worsen — not just in megacities but in smaller municipalities like Hajiganj. A Cry for Cleanliness Hajiganj’s predicament is a poignant reminder that development without planning leads not to progress, but to peril. Its streets echo with a silent plea — for dustbins over ditches, for solutions over stench, for a future where its children can play in parks, not pick through piles of refuse. If ever there was a time for action, it is now. Before Hajiganj — and towns like it — are buried under the very waste they produce.