Sylhet: Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment and Labour and Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury today urged all citizens to prioritize energy and electricity conservation. Addressing a meeting of the District Law and Order Committee at the Sylhet Deputy Commissioner’s office, he highlighted the importance of reducing energy consumption.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Choudhury emphasized that even the Prime Minister has set an example by minimizing the use of lights and air conditioning at his office, sending a strong message to the nation about the significance of saving electricity. The minister also discussed measures to prevent criminal activities in the district, particularly with Eid approaching. He recommended increased surveillance and the expansion of CCTV coverage across markets and the city to deter snatching incidents.
Minister Choudhury pointed out that snatchers often flee quickly on motorcycles after committing crimes. He suggested that controlling motorcycle movement and, in some cases, banning them from entering markets could be effective measures. Additionally, he announced plans to develop modern and affordable accommodation facilities for expatriates in Sylhet, acknowledging the difficulties they face finding suitable hotels near the airport at night.
The proposed 10-storey building at Overseas Bhaban in Zindabazar will include a hotel, a training center, and a branch of Probashi Kallyan Bank. Furthermore, the minister mentioned initiatives to establish schools and hospitals to support the education and healthcare needs of expatriates’ children.
The meeting was also addressed by Emran Ahmed Chowdhury, MP, and BNP Sylhet city unit general secretary Imdad Hossain Chowdhury, with Deputy Commissioner Md. Sarwar Alam presiding. Various government department officials attended the meeting.