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PM Sheikh Hasina: Bangladesh to Choose Best Teesta Project Proposal from India or China
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced today that Bangladesh is open to evaluating proposals from both India and China regarding the Teesta project and will select the one that best benefits the people of Bangladesh. Speaking at a press conference at her official residence, Gonobhaban, Hasina emphasized that the decision will prioritize national interests.
“Both India and China have made proposals. We will assess both and choose the one most beneficial for our people,” said Hasina during the event, which was called to discuss her recent state visit to India.
When asked about her preference between India and China, Hasina stated, “We maintain our friendships based on our developmental needs. Our historical ties with India date back to the 1971 Liberation War, while we also have valuable lessons to learn from China’s development.”
Addressing the specifics of the Teesta project, Hasina highlighted the ongoing discussions with both nations, especially India, with whom Bangladesh shares water from 54 rivers. “Our considerations include the project’s suitability, our repayment capacity, and the benefits for our people,” she explained.
She noted that partnering with India on the Teesta project could help resolve longstanding water-sharing issues. “Collaborating with India could streamline our efforts to address the Teesta water-sharing crisis,” she said.
Responding to social media criticism that Bangladesh is being sold to India, Hasina firmly denied any such intentions. “I do not compromise the country’s interests. Those who accuse me are pro-Pakistan,” she declared, humorously questioning how a country’s weight could be measured for sale.
On her relationship with India, Hasina reiterated that Bangladesh is an independent state, achieved through the 1971 Liberation War with India’s support. She emphasized that unlike other allied powers, India withdrew its troops immediately after the war at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s request.
Regarding the reopening of railways between Bangladesh and India, Hasina clarified, “Reopening these railways will greatly contribute to our economy, benefiting both common people and businesses.”
She also addressed objections to providing transit to India, comparing the situation to Europe’s open borders within the EU. “What is the harm in providing transit to another country? Should we close all doors of Bangladesh?” she questioned.
Hasina’s visit to New Delhi, from 21 June, marked the first bilateral visit by any head of government to India after the BJP-led alliance formed its government for the third consecutive time. This was also her second trip to the Indian capital in less than 15 days, following her attendance at Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony on 9 June.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecasted light to heavy rainfall accompanied by temporary gusty winds across all eight divisions of the country for the next 24 hours starting from 9 am today.
“Light to moderate rain or thundershowers with temporary gusty winds are likely to occur in most areas of Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barisal, Chattogram, and Sylhet divisions. Some areas may experience moderately heavy to very heavy rainfall,” stated the weather bulletin issued this morning.
The bulletin noted that the monsoon is active over Bangladesh and strong over the North Bay.
Daytime temperatures may slightly decrease, while nighttime temperatures are expected to remain nearly unchanged across the country.
Looking ahead to the next 72 hours, the rainfall activity is likely to continue, according to the extended outlook.
On Saturday, the highest temperature was recorded at 35.0 degrees Celsius in Ishurdi, while today’s lowest temperature of 23.8 degrees Celsius was recorded in Bandarban.
Panchagarh received the highest rainfall of 182 mm in the last 24 hours starting from 6 am today.
In the capital, the sun is set to set at 6:50 pm today and rise at 5:15 am tomorrow.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines has issued a stern warning to its approved travel agents, emphasizing that strict measures will be taken against those who violate the national carrier’s regulations.
In a letter addressed to all Passenger Service Agents (PSAs), Biman expressed concerns about agents undercutting or overpricing tickets on their web portals. “It has been observed by Biman Bangladesh Airlines that some reputed Biman-approved travel agents are selling and promoting Biman tickets at prices either lower or higher than the approved fares on different routes,” the letter stated.
The state-owned airline urged all PSAs to adhere to Biman’s rules and policies, warning that failure to comply could result in the termination of business relationships. Biman emphasized that agents manipulating the airline’s image and goodwill will face severe consequences. The letter highlighted that all approved PSAs in Bangladesh are entitled to a 7 percent commission on the base fare.
However, Biman noted that some agents are offering 15-20 percent discounts on tickets through their web portals and social media, creating unhealthy competition and damaging Biman’s reputation. Additionally, the letter mentioned that some online travel agents (OTAs) are failing to provide services to customers after ticket issuance, including assistance with travel plan changes or ticket refunds.
“We have been receiving numerous complaints on this issue, which directly affects our goodwill and image,” the letter from Biman’s Sales Promotion Section stated.
This move follows alerts from the Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB) regarding irregularities by certain agencies. “In this era of information technology, we support tech-based business but must ensure ticket buyers are not defrauded. We seek a proper and timely policy for OTAs,” ATAB President Abdus Salam Aref told BSS.
ATAB Secretary General Afshia Jannat Saleh also stressed the need for immediate action to restore fair competition in the travel and ticketing industry. “Biman offers agents a 7 percent commission per ticket, but some are selling at a 15-20 percent discount. Such practices clearly indicate dishonest intentions,” she said.
Stakeholders in the air ticketing sector have long advocated for policies regulating OTAs in Bangladesh.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the National Primary Education Week-2024 today, emphasizing a renewed commitment to ensuring quality education for children. The event took place at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium, where the prime minister served as the chief guest.
During the ceremony, Sheikh Hasina distributed the Primary Education Medal-2023 to 126 stakeholders in recognition of their contributions to primary education. The awards were presented in 18 categories, with 36 students, 15 individuals, and three organizations receiving medals directly from the prime minister.
The theme for this year’s Primary Education Week is “Shishu Bandhov Prathomik Shikkha, Smart Bangladesher Deekkha,” underscoring the importance of child-friendly primary education as a foundation for a smart Bangladesh.
State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Rumana Ali and Secretary Farid Ahmed also addressed the audience at the event. Additionally, a video documentary showcasing the development of primary and mass education across the country was screened.
