National
PM Sheikh Hasina Unveils Vision for Advanced Bangladesh Coast Guard
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has outlined a visionary plan to modernize the Bangladesh Coast Guard, turning it into a three-dimensional force equipped with cutting-edge technology and contemporary equipment. Addressing the 29th founding anniversary celebration at the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) headquarters, she revealed key initiatives, including the formation of an Aviation Wing, approval for nine replacement ships, procurement of additional vessels and helicopters, and plans to enhance manpower.
The prime minister emphasized that the government had granted in-principle approval for an Aviation Wing, with the acquisition of two helicopters, a move that would elevate the Bangladesh Coast Guard to a three-dimensional force. Sheikh Hasina also announced the approval of a project to build nine replacement ships, highlighting the commitment to bolstering the BCG’s capabilities.
In her address, Sheikh Hasina unveiled plans for the procurement of four Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) and two maritime version helicopters dedicated to deep-sea patrolling. These measures, she noted, aim to ensure the safety of professionals engaged in sea-based professions and waterways.
To reinforce and modernize the Bangladesh Coast Guard, the prime minister revealed upcoming additions, including advanced technology ships, maritime surveillance systems, hovercrafts, and high-speed boats. She expressed confidence that these enhancements would equip the force to effectively face 21st-century challenges, contributing significantly to the vision of building a smart Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina further disclosed plans to gradually increase the current strength of the Coast Guard to 15,000 manpower, aligning with Vision 2030 and Vision 2041 objectives. This expansion is anticipated to support the force in providing security at sea and contributing to the country’s blue economy.
Highlighting ongoing infrastructure developments, the prime minister mentioned the construction of a dockyard in Gazaria, Munshiganj, dedicated to the construction, repair, and maintenance of the force’s vessels and ships. She underlined the government’s commitment to facilitating the Coast Guard’s operational effectiveness.
Reflecting on the founding of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, Sheikh Hasina underscored the Awami League government’s continuous involvement in its formation and development. Since assuming power in 1996, the government has played a pivotal role in expanding the Coast Guard’s activities, providing essential resources and infrastructure.
Sheikh Hasina also recalled the visionary efforts of Bangladesh’s founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in framing “The Territorial Waters and Maritime Zone Act” in 1974. This legislation aimed to establish the legal rights of the country over the sea and marine resources, laying the foundation for Bangladesh’s maritime jurisdiction.
In her closing remarks, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the Bangladesh Coast Guard Vsatnet Communication System and several newly constructed infrastructures at BCG stations. She presented medals to commendable BCG officers, sailors, and civilians for their bravery.
The theme for this year’s founding anniversary celebration is “Smart Bangladesh, Smart Coast Guard.” Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, Public Security Division Secretary Md Mustafizur Rahman, and BCG Director General Rear Admiral Mir Ershad Ali were also present at the event.
The program concluded with a state salute from a smartly turned-out contingent of the Bangladesh Coast Guard and a cultural performance enjoyed by the prime minister. The occasion marked a significant step towards reinforcing the Bangladesh Coast Guard’s role in maritime security and contributing to the nation’s advancement.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecasted light to moderate rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds at most places across the Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions. Some areas may experience moderately heavy to very heavy rainfall, according to their latest weather bulletin released on Thursday.
Day and night temperatures are expected to remain nearly unchanged across the country.
The highest rainfall in the country over the past 24 hours was recorded in Kumarkhali, with 104mm of rain by 6 a.m. on Thursday.
The axis of the monsoon trough extends from India’s Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal to Assam, passing through Bangladesh, with one of its associated troughs stretching into the North Bay of Bengal.
The monsoon remains active over Bangladesh and moderate to strong over the North Bay region.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecasted that the mild heat wave currently affecting parts of the country, including the capital, is expected to subside in most areas within the next 24 hours, starting from 9 am today.
“A mild heat wave is sweeping across the divisions of Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, and Sylhet, as well as the districts of Jashore, Chuadanga, and Kushtia. It is likely to ease in most regions,” the department reported.
In addition, BMD predicted light to moderate rainfall or thundershowers, accompanied by temporary gusty winds, across most of Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions. Some areas are expected to experience moderate to very heavy rainfall.
Temperatures across the country may drop by 1-2 degrees Celsius during both day and night.
On Monday, Dinajpur in the Rangpur division recorded the country’s highest temperature at 38.6°C, while Bandarban in the Chattogram division saw the lowest temperature at 24.6°C early today.
Meanwhile, rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours, ending at 6 am today, reached 66 mm in Nikli of Dhaka Division.
The sunset in Dhaka is at 5:53 pm today, and sunrise is expected at 5:49 am tomorrow.
Two separate murder cases were filed today in connection with the deaths of a private service holder and a Madrasa student during the anti-discrimination student movement.
The first case was lodged by Ridwan Ahmed with Panchlaish police station, accusing former ministers Dr. Hasan Mahmud, Barrister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel, and 127 others for the death of his nephew Sujan, 14. Sujan, the son of Belal Hossain from Beramara village in Noakhali’s Sadar Thana, was a student at Al Jamirul Hayat Madrasa in the city’s Chandgaon area. He was fatally shot in the Muradpur area on July 18.
The second case was filed by Jamal Uddin at Doublemooring police station, accusing 225 individuals, including Dr. Hasan Mahmud and Education Minister Barrister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel, for the killing of his elder brother Alam, a private service holder, on August 5.
