Khulna:A festive atmosphere gripped Khulna today as thousands of people thronged the streets across the city and district to welcome Prime Minister Tarique Rahman during his visit, eager to catch a glimpse of him.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, since morning, BNP leaders and activists, along with people from different walks of life, gathered on both sides of major roads, holding party banners, festoons, balloons, and national flags. The streets echoed with slogans as enthusiastic crowds waited to greet the Prime Minister with flowers.
The road stretching from Kudir Bottola in Rupsha to Khulna District Stadium was crowded with people, with the gathering growing larger as the day progressed. Many people came with their families, while others joined BNP leaders and activists. Some had been waiting for hours in the hope of seeing the Prime Minister from close quarters and listening to his speech.
Shahidul Alam, a farmer from Samontosena area under Rupsha Upazila, expressed excitement about seeing a prime minister in person for the first time. Meanwhile, Shafiqul Alam Tuhin, general secretary of Khulna City BNP and a director of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, mentioned that the flower showers and warm reception along the route would remain memorable.
Khulna Development Authority Chairman and City BNP President Advocate Shafiqul Alam Mona highlighted that the Khulna region had suffered neglect over the past 17 years. The Prime Minister's visit had raised hopes among locals, particularly for the reopening of closed industries, employment opportunities, and the revival of the region's economic potential.
Security measures were tightened around the District Stadium from Wednesday, with restrictions on public movement from the Deputy Commissioner's office to the court intersection on Thursday morning. Police, the Special Response Battalion, and various intelligence agencies were deployed to ensure security, while BNP volunteers assisted in maintaining discipline.
The Prime Minister's visit has heightened expectations among residents for renewed development initiatives, job creation, and the revival of the region's industrial sector.