Editorial Views
Activate all universities quickly
The interim government has been in place for over a month, leading to numerous changes across national institutions, including shifts in Directors-General and vice-chancellors at universities. However, many of the country's government universities have yet to return to normal operations. Of the 55 autonomous and government universities in Bangladesh, 28 are currently operating without a vice-chancellor, which is disrupting their administrative and academic activities.
Why so much negligence in dengue control?
The dengue situation in the country has become increasingly severe. On September 10, five dengue patients died in a single day nationwide, and over 535 individuals were hospitalized. This news has understandably caused widespread anxiety and fear among the public.
Eliminate worker dissatisfaction
Labor unrest in the Savar-Ashulia and Gazipur industrial areas remains a growing concern, with tensions spreading beyond Dhaka to various districts across the country. This escalating situation poses a significant threat to both the nation's economy and its political stability.
Endangered butterflies and the loss of nature's palette
"Butterfly, butterfly—where did you get such a colorful wing?" This much-loved song by poet Kazi Nazrul Islam once brought joy to children who danced and sang along. While many might still remember the tune, it's increasingly rare for children today to see a butterfly up close, especially in urban areas. The absence of trees and flower gardens means there’s little chance for butterflies to thrive.
Ensure uninterrupted power supply
Over the past few days, severe load shedding has been causing extreme distress to people across Dhaka and the rest of the country. In many areas, there has been no electricity for 12 to 14 hours, both day and night. The scorching heat is leaving people gasping for relief, and work in offices and government institutions is being severely disrupted. Primary schools remain open, but children are unable to attend classes due to the lack of electricity. A sense of unrest and paralysis has spread across the country due to this power crisis.
Control the speed and route of autorickshaws
In the past, the country only had CNG-powered auto-rickshaws; now, battery-operated auto-rickshaws have also been introduced. These vehicles are widespread across the nation, including in the capital, Dhaka. While they have improved the speed and ease of commuting, they have also introduced significant risks. The uncontrolled speed of these auto rickshaws has led to numerous accidents, resulting in many fatalities.
Eliminate the deadlock in university education
Educational institutions were indefinitely closed from July 17 due to student protests demanding job quota reforms. The situation escalated, leading to the fall of the Awami League government on August 5 amid widespread student unrest. Following the government's collapse, calls for the resignation of top university officials, including vice-chancellors, intensified. This pressure also extended to schools and colleges, resulting in the resignation of some heads of educational institutions. The power shift has significantly disrupted educational programs.
Address corruption and enhance user-friendliness in shipping
Bangladesh is a riverine country, with a vast network of rivers and streams spreading across the land like a web. Our cities and villages have historically been built around these rivers, which have served as the primary means of communication for thousands of years. However, with the advent of modern road transport, river-based communication has been somewhat neglected. Despite this, many people in the country still rely on river travel. Waterways remain a viable option, particularly for transporting goods, as traveling by river is often less expensive, even though it may take more time. Unfortunately, the shipping sector in our country suffers not only from neglect but also from widespread corruption and irregularities.
Call to preserve jhoubon from the clutch of govt officials
The most captivating aspect of the beach is the gentle sway of the wind, but appreciating such scenery requires more than just visual enjoyment. Tamarisk trees (Jhoubon) plays a crucial role in soil retention along the shore. Historically, the Cox's Bazar seashore was adorned with a lush collection of jhoubon, but much of this vital marine vegetation is now disappearing. Particularly from Kalatali to Inani Beach, the sight of the sea has become increasingly rare. While natural erosion has contributed to this loss, a significant portion has been attributed to human activities. Unplanned construction of hotels and motels has further contributed to the destruction of these areas.
No protest by closing the factory
Medicine is a critical, life-saving product that is more dependent on service than on trade. Unfortunately, it is also a product manufactured in factories, which requires a workforce. Certain emergency medications are crucial for the well-being of individuals such as diabetics, pregnant women, children, and cancer patients. Any disruption in their access to these medications can pose serious risks to their health.