Bhola: Barrister Andaleeve Rahman Partho, MP, has declared that the overall law and order in the country has seen significant improvements compared to the past 17 years. Speaking to journalists after visiting erosion-hit areas in Ilisha and Rajapur under Bhola Sadar, he noted the absence of news regarding enforced disappearances, murders, and bank robberies in recent times.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Partho emphasized that during the past four and a half months, there have been no allegations of enforced disappearances, killings, political harassment, politically motivated cases against opposition parties, or state-sponsored corruption. He expressed optimism that such incidents would not occur in the future due to the government's strict actions against personal misconduct or irregularities.
Discussing political violence, Partho acknowledged reports of attacks on National Citizen Party (NCP) leaders, attributing such incidents to a longstanding political culture of confrontation. He urged all political parties to exercise patience and avoid provocative or indecent remarks.
Highlighting Bhola's industrial potential, Partho argued that natural gas alone is insufficient for industrial development. He stressed the necessity of the proposed Bhola-Barishal Bridge, improved infrastructure, law and order, and an investment-friendly environment. He mentioned that the government's goal is to develop Bhola as an industrial hub, with all relevant agencies working in coordination to achieve this objective.
Regarding the proposed Bhola-Barishal Bridge, Partho stated that the government has made a decision in principle to construct the bridge, with the Development Project Proposal (DPP) approval underway. The project would be implemented through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) following discussions with prospective investors. He further mentioned plans to establish a medical college in the region.
Concerning river erosion, Partho described the situation in Shibpur, Ilisha, and Rajapur as alarming, and noted that discussions would be held with engineers and authorities for prompt and effective measures. He mentioned a World Bank-funded project addressing river erosion, emphasizing the need to accelerate its implementation and pursue permanent solutions based on technical assessments.
During his visit to Bhola Sadar Hospital, Partho highlighted issues such as the shortage of physicians, sanitation workers, other staff, and medicine supplies. He committed to discussing these matters with the health ministry to ensure necessary measures are taken promptly. Accompanying him were Bhola Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sajal Kumar Das, Civil Surgeon Dr. Monirul Islam, local government officials, and leaders and activists of the Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP).