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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 issued forecasts of rain or thundershowers for Dhaka, Rangpur, and five other divisions, commencing from 9 am today and extending over the next 24 hours. This weather forecast encompasses Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, and Sylhet divisions, where accompanying gusty or squally winds are anticipated during the rainfall. Additionally, Chattogram division is expected to experience some activity, albeit in fewer places, with the potential for hail in isolated areas.
The BMD bulletin highlights that various areas within these seven divisions may witness significant thunderstorm activity, accompanied by temporary gusty or squally winds, with isolated occurrences of hail.
Temperature levels across the nation are projected to remain consistent, both during daytime and at night. Over the past 24-hour period, Rajshahi recorded the highest temperature in the country at 34.7 degrees Celsius, while Sreemangal, Moulvibazar, experienced the lowest temperature at 21.2 degrees Celsius.
Dhaka witnessed the most substantial rainfall, measuring up to 87mm. Residents in the affected divisions are advised to prepare for adverse weather conditions and stay informed about further forecasts from the BMD.
The Jashore Education Board has achieved the highest pass rate of 92.32% among the nine boards in the 2024 Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination, according to official data.
Conversely, Sylhet remained at the bottom with a pass rate of 73.35%, continuing its trend from last year when it also recorded the lowest pass rate of 76.06%.
Data from the education board website reveals that the Dhaka board secured a pass rate of 83.92%, while Rajshahi board achieved 89.25%, Cumilla board 79.20%, Barishal board 89.13%, Chattogram board 82.80%, Dinajpur board 78.40%, and Mymensingh board 84.97%.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina received the results of this year’s SSC and equivalent examinations. Students have been able to access their results through the official website.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina launched the 2024 Hajj program (1445 hijri) in Ashkona, the capital, today, May 8th.
Subsequently, she exchanged pleasantries with the Hajj pilgrims at the Ashkona Hajj camp.
The maiden Hajj flight is set to depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for Saudi Arabia on Thursday (May 9).
Dedicated Hajj flights will also operate from Chattogram and Sylhet airports, landing at Jeddah and Medina airports.
This year, 85,257 Bangladeshi pilgrims are expected to undertake the holy journey. Among them, 4,562 will be under government management, while 80,695 will be managed privately.
The Hajj is tentatively scheduled for June 15th, contingent upon the moon sighting.
In attendance were Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Muhammad Faruk Khan, Dhaka North City Corporation Mayor Atiqur Rahman, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Religious Affairs Ministry Mohammad Huchamuddin Chowdhury, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh Essa Yousef Essa Alduhailan, and president of Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) Shahadat Hossain Taslim.
Religious Affairs Minister Md Faridul Haque Khan chaired the inaugural function, while Religious Affairs Secretary Md A Hamid Zamadder delivered the welcome address.
