Rajshahi: Divisional Commissioner Dr. A. N. M. Bazlur Rashid has directed relevant authorities to expedite the implementation of ongoing development activities in the division with a focus on quality and inter-departmental coordination to enhance public service. He issued these directives during a meeting of the Divisional Development Coordination Committee held at his office.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners from the division's eight districts, representatives from law enforcement agencies, and heads of various government departments. The Food Department reported the procurement of 1 lakh 63 thousand 349 metric tons of paddy and 2 lakh 39 thousand 656 metric tons of rice against the target for the current season. The Food Friendly Program has updated the list of 8 lakh 33 thousand 751 beneficiaries, with rice and flour sales ongoing at 165 OMS centers.
The Agriculture Department confirmed that Aman cultivation has commenced, with normal fertilizer supply. Farmers are being educated on safe crop production, organic fertilizer use, and the avoidance of harmful substances. The Water Development Board is working on canal excavation to alleviate waterlogging in Chapainawabganj, protecting the Padma riverbank, and the excavation and de-pollution of the Barai river in Rajshahi-Natore. The Ichamati River Rejuvenation Project is also underway in Pabna, with district administration cooperation sought for land acquisition.
Dr. Rashid emphasized maintaining a stable power supply for irrigation from midnight to 7 am. The Rural Electricity Department reported fines totaling Taka 30 lakh collected last month in efforts to curb electricity theft and wastage. The Department of Archaeology plans to establish a museum in the Sonamasjid area, with activities potentially starting in September. Additionally, initiatives are in place for a boundary wall to protect ancient tombs in Sonamasjid and preparations for renovating the gazetted buildings of Natore Rajbari.
E-ticketing is set to launch at Paharpur and Mahasthangarh next September. The Department of Livestock is providing vaccination and treatment services for LSD and PPR diseases, alongside awareness campaigns for safe milk, egg, and meat production. Mobile courts are active against adulterated milk.
The Directorate of Consumer Rights Protection noted the normal supply of daily necessities but is monitoring the abnormal price increase of aromatic rice. Efforts are ongoing against the sale of overpriced gas-oil and rice adulteration. The Department of Social Services reported that 75 out of 76 units have completed work in the family card distribution program, with social security allowances now delivered via mobile banking directly to beneficiaries through the G2P system.
The Department of Environment is overseeing illegal poultry farms in densely populated areas, river and canal encroachment and pollution, and ETP activities of industrial establishments. The Fire Service and Civil Defense revealed that Rajshahi now has a turntable ladder capable of reaching up to 22 floors.
The Regional Election Office presented the progress of voter list and polling center preparations ahead of local government elections. The final voter list will be published on 31 August after resolving claims and objections.