Archive Weather

Commuters suffer as heavy rain inundates parts of Dhaka

Heavy rain and thunderstorms in Dhaka on Saturday morning caused severe waterlogging in various parts of the capital, creating immense difficulties for commuters. The Meteorological Department recorded 87mm of rainfall between 6am and 9am, categorized as “heavy” rainfall. Residents reported knee-deep water on streets, hampering transportation and forcing many to wade through murky waters, causing delays and inconvenience.  Photo: Chaitanya Halder

11 May 2024
Archive Europe

Putin reappoints Mishustin as Russia’s PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed reappointing Mikhail Mishustin as Prime Minister, signaling stability in his government amid the Ukraine war and Western sanctions. Mishustin, a technocrat with no political ambitions, has helped keep the Russian economy afloat despite sanctions. With virtually no opposition in parliament, Mishustin’s approval is almost certain. Putin is expected to retain key ministers like Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, sending a message of continuity in his team’s approach at home and abroad. Photo: Reuters

10 May 2024
Archive India

Kejriwal gets SC interim bail till June 1

India’s Supreme Court granted interim bail till June 1 to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, allowing him to campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Kejriwal, arrested in a money laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam, will have to surrender on June 2. The court rejected his plea to extend the interim bail till June 5, a day after vote counting. Kejriwal is challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in the case related to alleged corruption in Delhi’s now-scrapped excise policy for 2021-22. Delhi goes to polls on May 25 for its 7 Lok Sabha seats.

10 May 2024
Archive Weather

Rain likely in next 72 hours

Rain or thundershowers accompanied by gusty or squally wind is likely to occur at many places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal and Sylhet divisions, and at a few places over Rajshahi, Rangpur and Chattogram divisions with the possibility of hail at isolated places in the next 72 hours. The maximum temperature recorded on Thursday was 34.8°C at Jashore, and the minimum temperature today was 21.5°C at Faridpur and Rangpur. The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours was 24mm at Tetulia.

10 May 2024
ACCIDENTS & FIRES Archive

Pilot Asim Jawad laid to rest in Manikganj

Pilot Asim Jawad, who tragically lost his life when a Bangladesh Air Force trainer jet crashed into the Karnaphuli river in Chattogram, was laid to rest at Seota graveyard in Manikganj after three janazas. The 32-year-old pilot is survived by his wife, a daughter, and a son. People from all walks of life paid their last respects to the brave pilot, who died during a routine training flight when the YAK130 jet crashed while returning to base. Photo: Star

10 May 2024
Archive CRIME & JUSTICE

Man rescued 2 days after abduction, 4 held

In a successful rescue operation, police arrested four kidnappers and rescued a man abducted two days ago from Cumilla’s Monoharganj upazila. The victim, Md Hasan, 39, was found tied up in a room during a raid in Chattogram city. The arrested kidnappers are Alauddin Subuj, Md Liton, Rubel Hossain Badsha, and Abdur Rahman Badol. They had demanded a ransom of Tk 5 lakh from Hasan’s wife after abducting him from Chattogram on Wednesday.

10 May 2024
Archive World

Chinese companies hit with US trade restrictions over spy balloon incident

The Biden administration added 37 Chinese entities to a trade blacklist, including some linked to the Chinese spy balloon incident last year, escalating tensions with Beijing. The move aims to restrict China’s access to U.S. technology due to national security concerns over its military modernization efforts and quantum computing capabilities. China denounced the action as “economic coercion” and vowed to safeguard the rights of its firms. The entities were also accused of attempting to obtain American tech for military drones and shipping controlled items to Russia. Photo: Reuters

10 May 2024
Archive FOOTBALL

FIFA may face legal action over packed schedule

FIFA has been urged by global players’ union FIFPRO and the World Leagues Association to review plans for a 32-team Club World Cup next year, citing concerns over an overcrowded calendar and player welfare. They have threatened legal action if FIFA doesn’t address the issues before its council meeting on May 17, claiming the expanded competitions are “inherently abusive” and jeopardizing national leagues and players’ health.  Photo: Reuters

10 May 2024
Archive GOVERNANCE

Be sincere to enhance agriculture production, alleviate poverty: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today stressed the need for establishing cooperatives across the country to boost agricultural production, alleviate poverty, and facilitate micro-savings. She urged leaders to sincerely promote cooperatives while highlighting her government’s initiatives like “My House, My Farm,” start-up programs, universal pension schemes, and collateral-free loans for self-employment. Hasina appreciated the revival of the Dariarkul Gram Unnayan Samity cooperative society built on her donated land and reiterated her call to bring all land under cultivation to increase food production. Photo: BSS

10 May 2024
Archive THEATRE & ARTS

National Rabindra Sangeet Festival kicks off, honours Kalim Sharafi and Sadi Mohammad

The 35th National Rabindra Sangeet Festival, a three-day event celebrating the timeless melodies of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, commenced yesterday at the International Mother Language Institute auditorium. Organized by Bangladesh Rabindra Sangeet Shilpi Sangstha (BRSS), the festival honors notable figures like Kalim Sharafi and pays tribute to Tagore’s compositions through performances by over 300 artists from various cultural groups across the country. Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

10 May 2024
Archive VIEWS

IMF prescription to raise energy prices is anti-people, illogical

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is set to provide a $4.7 billion loan to Bangladesh, but with conditions that prioritize privatization and commercialization, leading to increased prices for gas, electricity, and transport. Critics argue that the IMF’s reforms protect corporate interests over public welfare and fail to address root causes of economic issues, ultimately burdening the general population. VISUAL: SHAIKH SULTANA JAHAN BADHON

10 May 2024
Archive Pollution

Dhaka’s air quality ‘worst in the world’ this morning

Dhaka topped the list of cities with the worst air quality worldwide with an AQI score of 203 (very unhealthy) today morning. Lahore, Jakarta, and Kathmandu followed Dhaka on the list. The AQI measures air pollution levels and potential health risks. Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution issues, with air quality typically worsening in winter. Air pollution is a major global health concern, causing an estimated 7 million premature deaths annually according to the WHO.

9 May 2024
Archive Bangladesh

US provides $30.5m additional assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh

The U.S. is providing an additional $30.5 million in assistance for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar, Bhasan Char, and the region. The funding includes support for healthcare, nutrition, water, shelter, and self-reliance initiatives. The announcement was made by U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Prescott during his visit to Bangladesh. With this, the total U.S. funding for the Rohingya crisis since 2017 has reached nearly $2.4 billion, of which over $1.9 billion has been provided for refugees and host communities in Bangladesh. Representational image:

9 May 2024
Archive India

Modi skips election in Kashmir as critics dispute integration claims

For the first time since 1996, India’s ruling BJP is not contesting elections in Kashmir, where powerful local parties like National Conference and PDP are the main contenders. Analysts say the BJP decided to skip as the outcome may contradict the government’s narrative of normalcy in Kashmir after revoking its semi-autonomous status in 2019. Local leaders allege continued discontent and alienation in the heavily militarized region.

9 May 2024
Archive BUSINESS

US revokes some licenses for exports to China’s Huawei

The U.S. has revoked some export licenses that allowed companies like Qualcomm to supply Chinese tech giant Huawei, adding pressure amid fears Huawei could be used for Chinese espionage. The move came after Republican lawmakers urged blocking all exports to Huawei following its release of a new Intel-powered computer. China vowed to safeguard the rights of its firms, calling the U.S. restrictions “economic coercion.”

9 May 2024
Archive DIPLOMACY

India interested to finance Bangladesh’s Teesta project: Hasan Mahmud

India has expressed interest in financing Bangladesh’s Teesta river project, said Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud after meeting Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra. They discussed PM Hasina’s upcoming visit to India after the Indian elections. Border killings, non-lethal weapons use, easing visa regimes, and regional connectivity including hydropower import from Nepal/Bhutan via India were also discussed. Hasan praised the excellent Bangladesh-India ties under Hasina and Modi’s leadership.

9 May 2024
Archive International

Israel says Biden threat to stop arms ‘very disappointing’

Israel’s UN ambassador expressed disappointment at US President Joe Biden’s threat to stop supplying certain offensive weapons to Israel if it invades the crowded Gaza city of Rafah. Biden warned that civilians have been killed by Israeli bombs in Gaza, calling it “wrong.” The ambassador said Biden’s comments give hope to Israel’s enemies and questioned how Israel can achieve its goals if restricted from entering areas like Rafah with Hamas militants. Heavy shelling was reported in Rafah on Thursday. Photo: AFP

9 May 2024
ACCIDENTS & FIRES Archive

Derailment in Pabna: Dhaka’s rail link with northern and southern regions restored after 5hrs

Rail communication between Dhaka and the northern and southern districts was restored after over five hours, following the derailment of two bogies of the Burimari Express at Muladuli Railway Station in Pabna around 3am today. Services of seven intercity trains were delayed due to the incident. A two-member probe committee has been formed to investigate the cause of the derailment and submit a report within three working days. Photo: UNB

9 May 2024
Archive FOOTBALL

Something magical’: Ancelotti relishes Real’s incredible comeback

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti hailed their “magical” 2-1 comeback win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals. Trailing 3-2 on aggregate, substitute Joselu scored two late goals to send Real to their sixth final since 2013-14. Ancelotti praised the team’s never-say-die spirit and the impact of Joselu, who remained professional despite limited playing time. Real will face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final on June 1.  Photo: Reuters

9 May 2024
Archive CRIME & JUSTICE

Sohel Chowdhury murder: 3 get life term, 6 acquitted

A Dhaka court sentenced Aziz Mohammad Bhai, Adnan Siddiqui, and Afakul Islam to life imprisonment for the murder of actor Sohel Chowdhury in 1998. Six others were acquitted due to lack of evidence. Sohel was shot dead by unidentified criminals at Trumps Club in Banani. The case had been ongoing since 1998, with charges framed in 2001 and proceedings stayed in 2003 until the recent verdict.

9 May 2024
Archive CRICKET

Shakib, Soumya, Mustafizur return for last two T20Is

Shakib Al Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, and Mustafizur Rahman were recalled for the last two T20Is against Zimbabwe in Mirpur on May 10 and 12. The trio missed the first three matches which Bangladesh won. Parvez Hossain Emon, Afif Hossain, and Shoriful Islam were dropped to accommodate them. Shakib had skipped the Chattogram phase, Soumya was injured, while Mustafizur joined after the IPL. Bangladesh announced a 15-member squad led by Najmul Hossain Shanto for the remaining two games.

8 May 2024
Archive Bangladesh

Avoid doing anything that hurts religious sentiments: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina described Islam as a religion of peace while inaugurating the Hajj 2024 program. She urged people to avoid acts like alcohol, gambling, corruption, terrorism, and militancy that hurt religious sentiments. Islam ensures rights for all, she said, condemning how a few tarnish its image through militancy. She assured equal religious freedom and asked pilgrims to pray for Bangladesh during Hajj. This year, 85,257 Bangladeshis, including 4,562 under government management, will perform Hajj expected on June 15. Photo: Prabir Das

8 May 2024
Archive India

Over 80 Air India Express flights cancelled after 300 crew members go on sick leave

Air India Express, owned by Tata Group, canceled over 80 flights after around 300 cabin crew members called in sick abruptly, switching off phones. The airline stated the crew protested against new employment terms through this “mass sick leave.” It apologized for the disruption and is trying to minimize inconvenience. The Civil Aviation Ministry took cognizance of the sudden cancellations spanning Tuesday and Wednesday. Impacted passengers will receive refunds or free rescheduling. The airline advised flyers to check flight status before heading to the airport. Representational Image/The Statesman

8 May 2024
Archive BUSINESS

Bangladesh Bank hikes policy rate by 50 basis points to 8.5%

Bangladesh Bank raised its policy rate by 50 basis points to 8.5% to combat persistent high inflation above 9%. This contractionary move aims to reduce demand and control prices, following multiple rate hikes since May 2022. The central bank also increased the Standing Lending Facility rate to 10% and the Standing Deposit Facility rate to 7% to refine liquidity management. The World Bank warned that high inflation likely pushed 500,000 people into extreme poverty.

8 May 2024
Archive USA

Judge warns Trump over audible ‘cursing’ as Stormy testifies

The judge in Donald Trump’s hush money trial stated that the former president was “cursing audibly” and shaking his head in a “contemptuous” manner during Stormy Daniels’ testimony on Tuesday. Judge Juan Merchan warned Trump’s lawyers to temper their client’s behavior, noting it had the potential to intimidate the witness and jury. Trump’s attorneys unsuccessfully sought a mistrial based on Daniels’ explicit testimony about their alleged affair. Trump later called the case a “disgrace” and said he should be campaigning instead.  Photo: AFP

8 May 2024
Archive CLIMATE CHANGE

World sweltered as April smashed global heat records

April 2024 marked another month of record-breaking global air and sea surface temperatures, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. Despite the weakening El Niño phenomenon, temperatures were 1.58°C above pre-industrial levels, surpassing the 1.5°C Paris Agreement target. The report cited human-caused climate change as exacerbating the extremes, with diverging floods and droughts observed globally. Experts warn that the end of El Niño does not mean an end to high temperatures, as greenhouse gas emissions continue to trap heat. photo: Reuters

8 May 2024
Archive Economy

HSBC’s 2023 profit nearly Tk 1,000cr

HSBC Bangladesh has registered a record profit of nearly Tk 1,000 crore in 2023, making it one of the most profitable banks in the country. The 70% year-on-year profit surge was attributed to a rise in interest income and investment income from treasury bills and bonds. However, the bank’s income from commissions dropped by 21%. HSBC increased its investments in high-yielding treasury bonds but reduced its loans and advances during the year. The bank also witnessed a 17% hike in classified loans.

8 May 2024
Archive World

AstraZeneca to withdraw Covid-19 vaccine globally as demand dips

AstraZeneca has initiated the worldwide withdrawal of its Covid-19 vaccine, Vaxzevria, citing a “surplus of available updated vaccines” since the pandemic. The company cited declining demand for Vaxzevria due to the availability of multiple updated variant vaccines. AstraZeneca has also proceeded to withdraw the vaccine’s marketing authorizations within Europe. The withdrawal comes after reports that the company admitted in court documents that the vaccine could cause side effects like blood clots and low platelet counts. Photo: Reuters

8 May 2024
Archive FOOTBALL

Luis Enrique proud despite ‘unfair’ Champions League exit

Despite the “unfair” 2-0 aggregate defeat against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League semi-finals, Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique insisted he was “proud” of his team’s performance. Despite hitting the woodwork six times across the two legs, PSG failed to score, with Enrique acknowledging the result was not a fair reflection of the tie. The Spaniard now shifts focus to the French Cup final against Lyon, where PSG aim to complete a domestic treble. PHOTO: REUTERS

8 May 2024
Archive VIEWS

In tackling climate change, we must aim for just resilience

Despite over a decade of negotiations, the world has failed to produce a complete adaptation framework to track adaptation actions. At COP28, the UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience was approved, but it lacks measurable indicators to monitor progress. As a pioneer in community-based adaptation, Bangladesh can show a path by integrating equity and justice considerations into its National Adaptation Plan (NAP2050) indicators, ensuring a “just resilience” approach that leaves no one behind in the fight against climate change. PHOTO: STAR

8 May 2024
Archive ISRAEL'S ATTACK ON PALESTINE

US halts bomb shipment to Israel over Rafah concerns

The United States paused a shipment of bombs to Israel last week over concerns that Israel might invade the southern Gaza city of Rafah. This marks the first time President Biden has squeezed military aid to the key US ally during the ongoing conflict. The move came after Israel did not fully address US concerns about a potential major ground operation in Rafah, where over a million people are sheltering. Photo: AFP

8 May 2024
Archive Economy

Beyond Dollar: Bangladesh to seek over 36b yuan in Chinese loans

Bangladesh plans to seek over $5 billion in soft loans from China to ease pressure on its dollar reserves. The funds will be used to support businesses importing raw materials and for budget support. China is Bangladesh’s largest trading partner, with Bangladesh importing goods worth $22.9 billion in fiscal 2022-23. Officials aim for a long-term loan with an interest rate below 1% to address the country’s depleting reserves, currently at $19.95 billion.

8 May 2024
Archive Bangladesh

PM urges IOM to raise more funds for Rohingyas

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to raise more funds from newer sources to assist the Rohingyas sheltered in Bangladesh. During a courtesy call by IOM Director General Amy Pope, Hasina said the decreased funding for Rohingya assistance requires the IOM to find new partners for raising more funds. The PM also called on the IOM to help relocate Rohingyas to Bhasan Char, where around 30,000 Rohingyas have already been shifted out of the 100,000 capacity built with facilities like education and healthcare. Photo: BSS

7 May 2024
Archive Bangladesh

418 BGB platoons deployed for first phase of upazila polls

Ahead of the first phase of upazila parishad polls tomorrow, 418 platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed to maintain peace and assist the local administration until May 10. Additionally, 1,59,874 Ansar members will help law enforcers ensure security at voting centers. In the first phase, 1,588 candidates will contest 150 upazila polls for chairman, vice chairman, and reserved vice chairman posts. Already, 25 candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase. Photo: Border Guard Bangladesh

7 May 2024
Archive Weather

Rain or thundershowers likely in all eight divisions: Met office

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted rain or thundershowers in all eight divisions over the next 24 hours. Gusty winds and hail are expected in some areas. A mild heatwave is sweeping over Gopalganj, Jashore, and Chuadanga districts, but it may abate soon. The highest temperature recorded yesterday was 37.6°C in Jashore, while the lowest today was 18.8°C in Bandarban. The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours was 130mm in Feni. Photo: Prabir Das

7 May 2024
Archive CRICKET

Rejuvenated Amir back for ‘unfinished work’ at T20 World Cup

Rejuvenated fast bowler Mohammad Amir, 32, has come out of retirement to play for Pakistan in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Amir, who was jailed for spot-fixing in 2011, says he has “unfinished work” after being part of Pakistan’s 2009 T20 World Cup winning team as a teenager. He aims to complete his redemption by helping Pakistan win the tournament in the USA and West Indies. Amir has rejoined a potent Pakistan pace attack featuring Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf. Photo: AFP

7 May 2024