Mahmudur Rahman

Experienced multimedia journalist with close to a decade of expertise in the Bangladeshi mainstream media. Specializing in investigative journalism, my background includes extensive coverage of environmental issues, political developments, and human rights matters.

Rainfall Across Bangladesh Spurs Anticipation of Temperature Decline

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The arrival of Cyclone Michaung has ushered in widespread rainfall across various regions of the country, according to reports from the Meteorological Office. Forecasts suggest that the precipitation is likely to intensify starting tonight, with a prospect of rain in different areas, including the capital, on Thursday. Subsequently, temperatures across the nation may witness a decline ranging from 1 to 3 degrees Celsius, and there is a potential surge in colder weather anticipated from December 10 onwards. As per the 24-hour forecast presented by the Meteorological Office, the formidable Cyclone Michaung, situated in the western-central Bay of Bengal and its neighboring zones, has progressed northward. It traversed Andhra Pradesh in India via the Nilor and Masulipatnam regions on Tuesday. Presently, the cyclone has transitioned into a weakened low-pressure system situated in the northern regions of Andhra Pradesh and its nearby areas. There is an expected gradual further weakening as it continues its northward trajectory within the local region. The weather forecast predicts light to moderate rainfall accompanied by gusty winds in divisions such as Rajshahi, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chittagong, Mymensingh, and Sylhet. Temporary storms are also anticipated in specific areas of the Rangpur division. Moreover, sporadic episodes of light to moderate rain or thunderstorms with substantial precipitation might occur in various parts of the country. The Meteorological Office has issued a cautionary advisory, emphasizing the potential for temporary flooding in specific areas. Muhammad Abul Kalam Mallik, a meteorologist at the Meteorological Office, communicated this morning that rain is expected in various parts of the southern region, including Dhaka, starting tonight. From Thursday onwards, there is a likelihood of light to heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds, with Dhaka also poised to experience rain. However, the Rangpur division may experience comparatively less rainfall. In response to the precipitation, temperatures across the country are anticipated to decrease by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius, as indicated by the Meteorological Office. Muhammad Abul Kalam Malik further mentioned that following two days of rain, a substantial influx of colder weather is projected to commence from either Sunday or Monday.

China Allocates $1.5 Million for Healthcare Advancement of Rohingya Women in Bangladesh

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China Allocates $1.5 Million for Healthcare Advancement of Rohingya Women in Bangladesh

In a significant move, China has granted $1.5 million for the healthcare development of Rohingya women residing in shelters in Bangladesh, a contribution that has been warmly welcomed by the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR). The UNHCR, in a statement released today, disclosed that China’s generous grant will specifically benefit over 60,000 Rohingya women aged between 12 and 50. This aid is part of China’s commitment through the China International Development Cooperation Agency and is expected to continue until the year 2025. Sumbul Rizvi, the representative of UNHCR in Bangladesh, underscored the importance of this substantial funding from China, particularly as the Rohingya crisis enters its seventh year. She highlighted that Rohingya women and girls already receive annual hygiene kits, and China’s assistance will now facilitate the distribution of an additional 500,000 hygiene kits. The collaborative efforts of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society and UNHCR will ensure the supply of these kits, containing essential items such as soap, shampoo, and other necessities. Yao Wen, China’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, reiterated China’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities as a crucial partner and its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for marginalized communities. While expressing hope for future collaborations with UNHCR on more initiatives, Ambassador Wen emphasized that a lasting solution to the crisis lies in the repatriation of displaced Rohingya to Myanmar. A noteworthy aspect of the initiative involves the active involvement of over 200 women from Rohingya and local Bangladeshi communities in Cox’s Bazar. They will play a pivotal role in producing the remaining items for the hygiene kits, gaining valuable skills for self-reliance, and contributing to sustainable livelihoods within their communities. Sumbul Rizvi further emphasized, “Refugee women, who have been vocal about their needs, have stressed the critical importance of these kits. They find this assistance indispensable and appreciate the quality of these materials produced by women in their own society.” The UNHCR collaborates closely with women and various stakeholders in Bangladesh, making significant contributions to the development of people’s lives. Given the ongoing humanitarian crisis, international support from nations like China is crucial to bolster the efforts of the Bangladesh government in providing humanitarian aid to Rohingya refugees and local host communities. This allocation from China stands as a testament to global cooperation in addressing pressing humanitarian needs.

Forbes Unveils Annual List of World’s Most Powerful Women

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Sheikh Hasina and Ursula von der Leyen

In its latest edition, the influential American magazine Forbes has unveiled its prestigious annual list ranking the top 100 most powerful women globally. The list highlights women from diverse fields who have made significant impacts on the world stage. Topping the list for the second consecutive year is Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission (EC), showcasing her continued influence on the international stage. A notable mover in this year’s ranking is Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. Climbing from her 42nd position last year, she now holds the 46th spot. This recognition emphasizes her enduring impact and leadership on the global front. In the Politics and Policy category, Sheikh Hasina stands out, securing the 18th position among powerful women worldwide. What makes her achievement even more remarkable is her ninth-place ranking in this category, at the age of 76, highlighting her enduring influence and political prowess. Forbes acknowledges six categories in its latest list, with Sheikh Hasina making her mark in the Politics and Policy arena, where a total of 18 powerful women have earned their positions. This annual Forbes list not only recognizes individual achievements but also serves as a testament to the evolving role of women in shaping global politics, policy, and society. The diverse array of accomplished women showcased in the list reflects the ongoing progress toward gender equality and the increasing impact of women leaders on the world stage.