Author: Redoy K

The Bangladesh Power Development Board (PDB) cut electricity generation by more than half due to Cyclone Remal, leaving hundreds of thousands without power across the country. Many power plants in coastal areas were shut down as a precautionary measure. Electricity poles were damaged, mainly in Khulna and Barisal regions. PDB’s current production is around 5,000MW, down from over 12,000MW the previous day. Power cuts began last midnight in many areas including parts of Dhaka.

Child abuse is rampant in Bangladesh with reports becoming increasingly common. Between January-April 2024, 226 children were subjected to violence and 176 killed, according to Ain O Salish Kendra. In 2023, over 1,000 children faced abuse. Major issues include lack of legal recourse, social stigma, perpetrators’ influence, and delays in justice delivery. The trauma leaves lasting psychological scars on victims. Urgent systemic reforms and societal change are needed to protect children’s rights and dignity. VISUAL: SHAIKH SULTANA JAHAN BADHON

The High Court has directed the government to immediately halt all activities of the “Silicon City” housing project in Savar, including earth-filling, plot selling, and registration. The court ordered this after the project was allegedly established by filling flood zones, reservoirs, and agricultural land illegally. The authorities have been asked to assess the environmental damage caused and submit a report within three months.

At a BIPSS policy circle, experts highlighted that influence operation threats are rapidly evolving, especially with advancements like AI. They discussed how influence operations undermine democracy, divide societies, and spread disinformation. The panelists emphasized the need for efficient fact-checking mechanisms, forensic labs, and increased awareness to cope with these emerging threats in Bangladesh.

A Dhaka court has ordered the seizure of properties held by former IGP Benazir Ahmed, his wife and children from 133 deeds, including 4 flats in Gulshan, and freezing of their shares in private firms. The orders came after the Anti-Corruption Commission appealed to attach more assets traced against the former police chief, who was earlier sanctioned by the US over human rights abuse allegations. The photo is taken from Benazir Ahmed’s Facebook page

Bangladesh Meteorological Department has issued a great danger signal no. 10 for Mongla and Payra ports as cyclonic storm Remal over the northwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm. It is expected to cross the Sagar Island and Khepupara coasts of West Bengal near Mongla by evening or midnight, bringing heavy rains and gusty winds to coastal areas of Bangladesh.