Khulna:Khulna city is undergoing a major beautification drive in anticipation of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's scheduled visit on November 5. The Prime Minister will inaugurate the second edition of 'Notun Kuri Sports-2026' at the Khulna District Stadium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the city is experiencing a festive atmosphere with the Khulna City Corporation (KCC) undertaking various initiatives to enhance its appearance. These efforts aim to showcase the region's rich history, heritage, and natural beauty.
The beautification initiative includes the painting of colorful murals on walls across the city, highlighting the cultural and natural heritage of Khulna and the southwestern region. The murals feature iconic symbols such as the Sundarbans, the Royal Bengal Tiger, deer, and the historic Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat. These artistic efforts are part of a broader goal to transform ordinary city walls into vibrant displays of local heritage and create an attractive urban environment for residents and visitors alike.
The activities are supervised by KCC Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju, with participation from students of the Fine Arts Discipline of Khulna University. Manju stated that the corporation is working to present Khulna as a beautiful, clean, and aesthetically appealing city ahead of the Prime Minister's arrival. The initiative is also expected to promote local history and culture among the younger generation and strengthen the city's distinctive identity.
Khulna, a major urban center in the southwestern region, has significant economic potential in industry, trade, fisheries, tourism, and Sundarbans-based activities. The Prime Minister's visit has raised expectations for regional development, improved infrastructure, and better civic facilities. Organizers anticipate that the 'Notun Kuri Sports-2026' program will expand nationwide while providing Khulna with an opportunity to welcome the Prime Minister.
In preparation for the visit, the district administration has directed relevant government departments and agencies to ensure a smooth and successful visit. Preparations include vehicle requisition, rest facilities, helipads, ambulances, emergency medical services, uninterrupted power supply, generators, firefighting equipment, and security arrangements. Authorities have emphasized coordinated efforts to ensure emergency response readiness, maintain essential services, and strengthen overall security during the visit.
Khulna Deputy Commissioner Hoore Jannat reported that officials and employees of all government offices in the district have been instructed to maintain regular attendance, with measures in place to discourage unnecessary casual leave. Additionally, people have been asked to voluntarily remove illegal structures, with a warning that unauthorized establishments will be evicted through mobile courts.
Enthusiasm is spreading across the city in anticipation of the Prime Minister's visit, with leaders and activists working together to prepare Khulna for the event. The ongoing beautification drive, especially the colorful murals, has added to the festive atmosphere leading up to the November 5 program.