Eid
Dhaka Metro Rail operations to continue past 9 pm from today
In a significant move to enhance late-night transportation options, the Dhaka Metro Rail has announced an extension of its operating hours. Starting today (March 27, 2024), the service will run an additional hour past its previous closing time, now concluding at 9:40 pm.
This decision, as explained by MAN Siddique, the Managing Director of Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), is a direct response to the increasing public demand for extended metro service hours. The announcement was made on March 25, marking a pivotal change in the metro's schedule to accommodate the needs of late-evening commuters.
Dhaka Metro Rail service hours being extended from March 27
Under the new timetable, the final train from the Motijheel station is scheduled to leave at 9:40 pm, while the last departure from the Uttara terminal will be at 9:20 pm. This adjustment will see the introduction of trains departing every 12 minutes during the newly added service hour, integrating an additional 10 trains into the daily rotation.
With this extension, the total number of daily metro trips will rise from 184 to 194, reflecting the DMTCL's commitment to improving public transportation accessibility and convenience.
Metro rail operating hours to be extended by one hour from 16th Ramadan
Prior to this change, Dhaka Metro Rail's operation hours spanned from 7 am to 8:40 pm. The service frequency included trains running every 8 minutes during peak hours—from 7 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 8 pm—and every 12 minutes during off-peak periods, between 11 am and 2:30 pm. This schedule adjustment is anticipated to significantly benefit the city's metro users by providing more flexible travel options during the evening.
Dhaka Metro Rail service hours being extended from March 27
In a move to cater to the increasing demand for late-night transportation, Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) has announced the extension of metro rail service hours beyond 9 pm, starting from Wednesday, March 27.
During a press briefing scheduled for tomorrow, the Managing Director of DMTCL, M. A. N Siddique, will provide detailed information regarding this significant service extension.
According to sources from DMTCL, the last train from Motijheel will now depart at 9:40 pm, and from Uttara end at 9:20 pm. This extension will introduce trains running every 12 minutes during the additional service hours, adding 10 more trains to the current schedule.
Read more: Metro rail operating hours to be extended by one hour from 16th Ramadan
Consequently, the total number of daily trips will increase from 184 to 194.
Currently, the Dhaka metro rail operates from 7 am to 8:40 pm, with trains running every 8 minutes during peak hours (7 am to 11:30 am and 2 pm to 8 pm) and every 12 minutes during off-peak hours (11 am to 2:30 pm).
This expansion of metro rail service is aimed at enhancing the commuting experience for Dhaka's residents, providing a more flexible and accessible transportation option during the evening hours.
Read more: HC orders probe into rent of Metro rail canteen
Bangladesh among 5 countries selected for project to strengthen preparedness to COVID-19, other infectious diseases
Bangladesh has been selected for a two-year collaborative project aimed at strengthening preparedness and response to COVID-19 and other emerging infectious diseases (EIDs).
As part of the Stockpile Project, the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) nominates the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) as the project implementing agency for a two-year collaborative project worth USD 10 million aimed at strengthening preparedness and response to COVID-19 and other emerging infectious diseases in five partner countries, namely Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the Philippines.
BNP’s 24-hour blockade underway with arson attacks
In selecting these five countries, the IFRC has prioritized countries at risk of disasters caused by natural hazards, the effects of which have been made worse by climate change, resulting in high risk of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
The USD 10 million is part of the Government of Japan's contribution to the Stockpile Project for COVID-19 and other emerging infectious diseases in Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) countries. Utilising this fund, the IFRC and national societies will implement the Stockpile Project in close connection with the public authorities through a structured set of activities.
Dhaka's air 6th worst in the world this morning
On November 28, an agreement signing ceremony was held at Malaysian Red Crescent National Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. During the signing of the agreement by ASEF and IFRC, the Chairperson of Malaysian Red Crescent Society, Di Raja Tan Sri Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz Binti Almarhum Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, Tunku Temenggong Kedah made a welcome address.
Among others, the ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, Takahashi Katsuhiko; ASEF Executive Director, Ambassador Toru MORIKAW; and Regional Director of IFRC, Alexander Matheou, spoke at the event.
During the signing of the agreement by ASEF and IFRC, the Acting High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia Mohammad Khorshed Alam Khastagir and Counsellor (Political) Pranab Kumar Bhattacharjee were also present.
24-hour blockade: 428 RAB patrol teams deployed
The Acting High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia expressed satisfaction on the signing of this important agreement and remarked that this project would play an effective role in improving the healthcare landscape, response mechanisms, and access to health services in Bangladesh.
11 Cool Places in and around Dhaka to Visit on Eid Day with Family, Children
In Bangladesh, the two Eids make up the largest form of national festivity enjoyed by people of all ages and all walks of life. This is also the time with the longest national holiday. As a result, Eid is also a time for families to enjoy each other’s company. To add to the festivities of the day, there are lots of beautiful places in and around Dhaka that one can explore with their family and children. Here’s a list of the best ones.
Best Places to Visit In and Around Dhaka on Eid-ul-Azha 2023
Lalbagh Fort
Built in the 17th Century, the Lalbagh Fort is a monumental architectural beauty, and a testament to the Mughal brilliance. The fort was commissioned by Prince Mohammad Azam, son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Today the fort remains as an homage to the rich cultural heritage of the region. There is a large open garden kept intact in its original design. The site also houses the mausoleum of Pari Bibi, daughter of Shaista Khan, the then Subedar of Bengal.
Read more: These are the top 25 hotels in Asia, according to Tripadvisor
The fort is open every day, except for Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm. The Lalbagh Fort remains closed on Eid day, but it will be open from the second day of Eid.
Ahsan Manzil
Widely dubbed as the “Pink Palace,” Ahsan Manzil situated in Islampur, Dhaka is another exquisite architectural marvel in the city. While the Lalbagh Fort is a testament to the Mughals, Ahsan Manzil stands tall as a remnant of the Nawabs of Dhaka.
The palace was built in the early 1900s, incorporating both European and Mughal styles of architecture. The palace is also noted to be the first home to have electricity in Dhaka back in the day.
The visiting hours of Ahsan Manzil are the same as Lalbagh Fort. It also remains closed on Eid day and will open from the second day of Eid.
Read more: Island Paradise: The Bahamas Travel Guide
Lessons of Qurbani: What does the Holy Eid-ul-Azha Sacrifice Teach Us?
Qurbani is an important religious practice for Muslims to demonstrate their devotion to Allah. In Islam, Qurbani means sacrificing something special, that is approved by religious laws, in Allah’s name for divine blessings.
Qurbani, also known as Eid-ul-Adha/ Eid-ul-Azha or the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, honors the remarkable story of Prophet Ibrahim and his act of obedience to Allah, serving as a testament to faith and devotion in Islam. This holy occasion is celebrated annually by Muslims around the world, signifying unity, compassion, and willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of Allah.
9 Teachings of Qurbani in Eid-ul-Adha
This auspicious occasion remembers the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah’s command. At the heart of this festival lies the act of Qurbani, which teaches us valuable lessons about faith, devotion, and selflessness. Let’s explore the profound lessons of Qurbani in Eid-ul-Adha.
Obedience to Allah
The story of Prophet Ibrahim teaches us that it’s most important to do what Allah asks us to do without questioning it. We should trust that Allah knows what’s best for us and have faith in His plans, even when things are tough.
Read more: Top 5 Eid-Ul-Azha, Animal Market Games for Android, iOS
Sacrifice and Selflessness
Qurbani teaches us about sacrifice and selflessness. It shows us that it’s important to let go of our own wants and think about what others need. During Eid-ul-Adha, we sacrifice an animal to understand the meaning of giving up something valuable for the benefit of others.
During Qurban Eid, when Muslims sacrifice animals, their main goal is to cleanse their souls and get rid of negative feelings like greed, resentment, and hatred. It’s a way for them to purify themselves spiritually and focus on kindness, generosity, and love toward others.
Gratitude and Thankfulness
When we participate in Qurbani, we are reminded of the many blessings given to us by Allah. It encourages us to be thankful for the abundance He provides us with, and helps us realize the importance of appreciating the blessings we have in our lives.
Compassion and Charity
Qurbani is about being kind and helping people who are in need. It teaches us that it’s important to share the blessings in our lives with others and give to those who don’t have as much as we do.
Read more: 10 Most Hyped Bangladeshi Movies Releasing on Eid-ul-Azha 2023
When we show compassion, we can offer comfort and inspiration to people near us and even far away. We have the power to give useful advice and guidance to those who need it, using our understanding and kindness, to make them feel better. We can share our good luck and love not just with our family and friends but also with strangers and those who need our help.
Eid-ul-Azha 2023: 4 Bangladeshi Online Cattle Markets to Check Out this Eid
Qurbani Eid 2023 festival is just around the corner. Like every year, Muslims in Bangladesh are eager to purchase sacrificial animals. However, visiting the animal haat (markets) physically to buy sacrificial animals during this sweltering summer heat can be a daunting task for many. Keeping all this in mind, different online platforms are once again starting online cattle markets.
4 Online Cattle Markets in Bangladesh for Eid-ul-Azha 2023
Purchasing sacrificial animals online has become more common nowadays, and fortunately, there are online Qurbani haat available in Bangladesh. Let’s explore these “digital haat” in detail.
Bikroy Birat Haat Powered by Minister
To celebrate the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, Bikroy.com, a renowned platform for buying and selling livestock, has joined hands with Minister Hi-Tech Park Ltd., a well-known manufacturer of electronics and home appliances, and OPPO Bangladesh, a global mobile manufacturing company. Together, they have organized a Qurbani campaign called ‘Bikroy Birat Haat Powered by Minister.’
Read more: Eid-ul-Azha 2023: Cumilla to have a surplus of 8,606 sacrificial animals, says livestock dept
Just like every Eid-ul-Azha, Bikroy is once again offering a special collection of farm animals exclusively for its valued customers. The Bikroy website already showcases over 1,600 advertisements for livestock.
To boost the popularity of Bikroy online haat, like every year, the company also launched the Birat Haat Contest. However, this year the contest will be different. Minister has taken on the role of Title Sponsor for the seventh consecutive time, while OPPO has joined as an Associate Partner for the first time. To participate in the Birat Haat contest, individuals are required to create a video following the theme song of Birat Haat along with its catchy dance step. The video should be shared on either one or all of the respective Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube profiles with the #BiratHaat2023 caption.
Additionally, participants are also required to submit the video link to the Bikroy Blog site. Among the submitted videos, 18 lucky winners will be chosen based on their entertainment value and uniqueness.
Read more: PM accepts cow as gift from couple for Eid-ul-Azha sacrifice
For the Member contest, 15 winners will be selected from sellers across all categories who have the highest number of ads, the most views, and ad responses. All winners will be rewarded with exciting prizes such as refrigerators, LED TVs, smartphones, and more, with a total value of BDT 6 lakh, sponsored by Minister Hi-Tech Park Ltd. and OPPO Bangladesh.
Bengal Meat Qurbani
On June 1 of this year, Bengal Meat announced the launch of the Qurbani portal for the 9th consecutive year. They sell organic grass-fed cattle, offering a unique and distinct option for customers.
Customers have the convenience of ordering their preferred cattle through the online platform, and the cattle are then delivered while maintaining the necessary quality.
Sadeeq Agro
Popular livestock farm Sadeeq Agro also arranged online cattle haat this year. The buyers can check their website to order any cattle they like. The site provides weight, and all other required information regarding the cattle. However, buyers can also visit their farm to see the cow and verify the weight.
Read more: Bhaijan now coming to Jashore
Qurbani cows can be ordered up to 7 days before Eid-ul-Azha. However, the buyer will be required to pay 10% in advance. The cost of cows vary as per the weight. After the order, Sadeeq Agro will deliver according to the customer’s preferred date. The best thing about Sadeeq Agro is that they do not have any delivery charges. And they deliver anywhere in the Dhaka metropolitan area.
Khaas Food
This year, Khaas Food has launched an Online Qurbani Haat, aiming to provide a convenient platform for purchasing sacrificial animals. It features a diverse selection of cows sourced from numerous farms and breeds. Each cow comes with detailed information, including weight, age, height, feed, gender, and colour.
Additionally, Khaas Food ensures transparency and clarity regarding the health of the cattle by specifying the vaccines they have received. To secure a booking, customers are required to make an upfront payment of 50% via bKash or credit card, with the remaining amount due before delivery. Delivery of sacrificial animals will be completed in 2-4 days before Eid. BDT 3000 is applicable for delivery charges. In this case, the delivery will be done according to the order of booking and the customer’s demand.
Final Words
For the last few years, the trend of Online Qurbani Haat in Bangladesh has revolutionized the way people participate in the tradition of animal sacrifice. The digital platform provides convenience, accessibility, and a wide range of options for individuals looking to purchase sacrificial animals. However, it is upon the buyers, to check all the detailed information such as breed, weight, age, height, feed, gender, and colour before purchasing a cattle. Thus, buyers can choose the best sacrificial animals from the online cattle markets for the holy occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.
Read more: With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, Khulna cattle famers distraught over price hike of fodder
Ferrying of non-perishable goods to remain suspended for 7 days during Eid: Khalid
The government has decided to suspend ferrying of goods except perishable ones and cattle for seven days before and after the Eid-ul-Azha, said State Minister for Shipping Ministry Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury.
The minister came up with the information while talking to reporters after a meeting over the movement of vessels ahead of Eid-ul-Azha at the Secretariat on Wednesday.
The suspension will remain in force from three days before or after the day of Eid-ul-Azha, he said.
Also read: BIWTC announces 20pc rise in ferry, ship fare
There will be no restriction on carrying motorbikes, he added.
Offices open today after Eid-ul-Fitr holidays
On the first workday after Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, attendance in offices is quite low.
After visiting the Secretariat today (April 24), it was seen that most of the employees were on optional leave.
Read More: Quader satisfied with ‘hassle-free’ Eid commute, urges discipline
The holiday for government officials and employees began on April 19 and ended on Sunday (April 23).
Eid greetings were seen being exchanged at the Secretariat today, among officials and staff.
Finance Ministry releases Tk 1000 crore incentives for knitwear sector ahead of Eid
The Ministry of Finance has released cash incentives of Tk1,000 crore for Bangladesh's export-oriented knitwear sector.
The ministry took the decision 11 days after receiving an application of Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association's (BKMEA) for financial support for payment of salary and Eid bonus ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Read: Bangladesh Bank has revolutionised digitalisation of financial sector: Dr Atiur
The request for cash assistance was made to the government on March 30 in a letter signed by the BKMEA president AKM Salim Osman.
The letter stated that if the financial assistance is not given, the export sector may be in extreme trouble over the payment of salary and bonus to the workers before Eid.
Bangladesh Bank has been instructed by the Ministry of Finance and the Comptroller General of Accounts to clear the amount of cash assistance.
Read More: Dip in US market fails to dent apparel sector's growth momentum.
Dhaka's New Supermarket fire finally doused after 27 hours
The massive fire at New Supermarket, next to Dhaka New Market, was finally doused this morning (April 16, 2023)- around 27 hours after it started and burnt down several shops and establishments during this busy Eid shopping season.
Lima Khanom, duty officer (control room) of Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters said the flame was finally doused around 9 am today.
Earlier yesterday, the fire broke out at around 5:40 am.
Read more: Fire at Dhaka’s New Supermarket now under control
A total of 28 firefighting units and teams of Bangladesh Army, Navy and Air Force took part in the effort to douse the fire. The fire was brought under control around 9:10 am yesterday.
Some 32 people, including firefighters, fell sick from the heavy smoke while firefighters were trying to douse the blaze.
On April 4 morning, a massive fire broke out at Bangabazar Shopping Complex in Dhaka, burning several thousand shops to ashes. A total of six adjacent markets were also burnt.
Read More: Fire safety system of New Supermarket was very weak: Fire Service
The fire was doused on April 7, over 75 hours after it broke out.