People are queuing up at fuel stations late at night to fill up their tanks in Bangladesh after the price was hiked 52 per cent.

Demanding the unexpected price increase be reversed, angry demonstrators surrounded fuel stations throughout Bangladesh.

In the "highest ever" price hike since the country got independence, diesel rate went up by 34 Taka per litre.

Prompting the government to seek loans from global lending agencies, including the International Monetary Fund, soaring energy and food prices have inflated its import bill.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/504492" hreflang="en">Third member of UK family dies due to suspected poisoning in Bangladesh</a>

Bangladesh, which has been one of the fastest-growing in the world, has been witnessing several protests by student unions in the country's capital Dhaka.

Dhaka Tribune quoted a protester as saying "Common people are already in hardship to cope with the rise of living costs. Government's looting of Public property and mismanagement led people toward this suffering."

Noting that state-run Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) had incurred a loss of more than 8 billion taka ($85 million), the fuel price increase was inevitable given global market conditions.

With annual inflation in July hitting 7.48 per cent, Bangladesh's inflation rate has topped 6 per cent for nine consecutive months.

(With inputs from agencies)

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People are queuing up at fuel stations late at night to fill up their tanks in Bangladesh after the price was hiked 52 per cent. Demanding the unexpected price increase be reversed, angry demonstrators surrounded fuel stations throughout Bangladesh.

People are queuing up at fuel stations late at night to fill up their tanks in Bangladesh after the price was hiked 52 per cent. Demanding the unexpected price increase be reversed, angry demonstrators surrounded fuel stations throughout Bangladesh. In the "highest ever" price hike since the country got independence, diesel rate went up by 34 Taka per litre. Prompting the government to seek loans from global lending agencies, including the International Monetary Fund, soaring energy and food prices have inflated its import bill. Also read | Third member of UK family dies due to suspected poisoning in Bangladesh Bangladesh, which has been one of the fastest-growing in the world, has been witnessing several protests by student unions in the country's capital Dhaka. Dhaka Tribune quoted a protester as saying "Common people are already in hardship to cope with the rise of living costs. Government's looting of Public property and mismanagement led people toward this suffering." Noting that state-run Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) had incurred a loss of more than 8 billion taka ($85 million), the fuel price increase was inevitable given global market conditions. With annual inflation in July hitting 7.48 per cent, Bangladesh's inflation rate has topped 6 per cent for nine consecutive months. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Bangladesh: People queue up at fuel stations after 52% surge in fuel prices

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi has concluded his Bangladesh visit. Bangladesh and China has signed four MoUs on Cultural cooperation, disaster management, Education.

China increases Dhaka's duty free access & thanks Bangladesh for supporting one-China policy

A 20-year-old Cardiff woman has become the third member of a British family to die of suspected poisoning in Bangladesh.

Samira Islam, 20, died on Friday after being found unconscious in a locked room with her family in eastern Sylhet city on July 26. Earlier, her father Rafiqul Islam, 51—a taxi driver—and his 16-year-old son, Mahiqul, had died in the rented flat.

Hundreds of people came out in Sylhet to pay their respects at the funeral of Rafiqul and Mahiqul on 28 July.

According to BBC, which quoted sources, Samira’s mother, Husnara, 45, and the elder son, Sadiqul, 24, were being treated and&nbsp;have since been released from the hospital.

The family of five was on a two-month holiday trip to the South Asian country when they suddenly fell ill.

The police said they collapsed following a meal and tests are being carried out to determine whether they were poisoned via the food or the heating system. It is being said that the family members died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.

The two survivors informed the police that there was a faulty electricity generator in the apartment that was used on the night of the incident. The device emitted smoke, which the police believe could be behind the poisoning.

“Our primary suspicion is they were poisoned,” police official Supt Farid Uddin was quoted as saying.

He added that all family members slept in the same room, the doors were locked and there was no sign of forced entry.

“Our investigators are speaking with the relatives of the victims. So far, we don’t think they have any enmity with anyone,” Uddin added.

Meanwhile, friends of the family in Cardiff have expressed utter shock and disbelief at the tragic news.

"It’s very terrible. It’s very tragic, hard to take in,” Muhibur Islam, member of the Jalalia mosque and Islamic education centre, was quoted as saying.

"The circumstances are not clear. We’re praying that those who have survived will pull through. We’re praying for them all," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 20-year-old Cardiff woman has become the third member of a British family to die of suspected poisoning in Bangladesh. Samira Islam, 20, died on Friday after being found unconscious in a locked room with her family in eastern Sylhet city on July 26.

A 20-year-old Cardiff woman has become the third member of a British family to die of suspected poisoning in Bangladesh. Samira Islam, 20, died on Friday after being found unconscious in a locked room with her family in eastern Sylhet city on July 26. Earlier, her father Rafiqul Islam, 51—a taxi driver—and his 16-year-old son, Mahiqul, had died in the rented flat. Hundreds of people came out in Sylhet to pay their respects at the funeral of Rafiqul and Mahiqul on 28 July. According to BBC, which quoted sources, Samira’s mother, Husnara, 45, and the elder son, Sadiqul, 24, were being treated and have since been released from the hospital. The family of five was on a two-month holiday trip to the South Asian country when they suddenly fell ill. The police said they collapsed following a meal and tests are being carried out to determine whether they were poisoned via the food or the heating system. It is being said that the family members died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. The two survivors informed the police that there was a faulty electricity generator in the apartment that was used on the night of the incident. The device emitted smoke, which the police believe could be behind the poisoning. “Our primary suspicion is they were poisoned,” police official Supt Farid Uddin was quoted as saying. He added that all family members slept in the same room, the doors were locked and there was no sign of forced entry. “Our investigators are speaking with the relatives of the victims. So far, we don’t think they have any enmity with anyone,” Uddin added. Meanwhile, friends of the family in Cardiff have expressed utter shock and disbelief at the tragic news. "It’s very terrible. It’s very tragic, hard to take in,” Muhibur Islam, member of the Jalalia mosque and Islamic education centre, was quoted as saying. "The circumstances are not clear. We’re praying that those who have survived will pull through. We’re praying for them all," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Third member of UK family dies due to suspected poisoning in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh government has sought loans from the IMF amid high inflation and rising fuel prices. Fuel prices soared by over 50% in the country.

Bangladesh government seeking loans from the IMF amid high inflation

Bangladesh government seeking loans from the IMF

An out-of-tune Bangladeshi singer was picked up by the police and told not to sing certain classical songs. Hero Alom is a social media star; he claims the police told him that he's too ugly to sing. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Bangladesh's out-of-tune singer told not to sing classical songs

Bangladesh is seeking loans from the IMF, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank amid a looming foreign exchange crisis. Why is Bangladesh running out of dollars? Is another South Asian country going the Sri Lanka way? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Is Bangladesh going the Sri Lanka way?

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi is likely to visit Dhaka at the beginning of August. Wang Yi plans to come to Dhaka as part of his visit to ‘friendly countries’ including five ASEAN members, Mongolia and Bangladesh.

WION Dispatch: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi likely to visit Dhaka in August

Is Bangladesh heading towards a debt crisis? Dhaka has now requested two billion dollars from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank to boost the economy, this comes amid the massive political and economic unrest in the South Asian nation.

Bangladesh seeks $2 billion monetary aid from World Bank, ADB

Bangladesh has sought a multibillion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after rising food and fuel prices severely impacted its forex reserves.

Notably, it is the third South Asian country to approach IMF seeking a financial rescue package after Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

According to the Daily Star newspaper, the country wanted $4.5bn from the IMF, including budgetary and balance-of-payment support.

“The IMF stands ready to support Bangladesh, and the staff will engage with the authorities on programme design as per the established policies and procedures of the fund,” The Guardian quoted an IMF spokesperson.

“The amount of support will be part of the programme design discussions,” the spokesperson added, without mentioning the potential size of the package.

This comes at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a massive spike in energy and food prices, sending Bangladesh’s balance of payments into deficit.

Since the onset of the pandemic, around 90 countries have approached the IMF, however, only a select few have been forced to seek bailouts to avoid defaulting on loans or being unable to pay bills.

But Bangladesh’s economy has performed better than other South Asian countries partly thanks to its robust export sector, especially the garment trade which brings in valuable foreign currency into the country.

Bangladesh’s finance minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has denied that the country’s facing any economic woes saying that the government would take an IMF loan only if conditions were favourable.

“If the IMF conditions are in favour of the country and compatible with our development policy, we’ll go for it, otherwise not,” Kamal told reporters.

“Seeking a loan from the IMF does not mean Bangladesh’s economy is in bad shape.”

Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves fell to $39.7bn in July down from $45.5bn a year earlier. It would cover over five months worth of imports.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh has sought a multibillion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after rising food and fuel prices severely impacted its forex reserves.

Bangladesh has sought a multibillion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) after rising food and fuel prices severely impacted its forex reserves. Notably, it is the third South Asian country to approach IMF seeking a financial rescue package after Sri Lanka and Pakistan. According to the Daily Star newspaper, the country wanted $4.5bn from the IMF, including budgetary and balance-of-payment support. “The IMF stands ready to support Bangladesh, and the staff will engage with the authorities on programme design as per the established policies and procedures of the fund,” The Guardian quoted an IMF spokesperson. “The amount of support will be part of the programme design discussions,” the spokesperson added, without mentioning the potential size of the package. This comes at a time when the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused a massive spike in energy and food prices, sending Bangladesh’s balance of payments into deficit. Since the onset of the pandemic, around 90 countries have approached the IMF, however, only a select few have been forced to seek bailouts to avoid defaulting on loans or being unable to pay bills. But Bangladesh’s economy has performed better than other South Asian countries partly thanks to its robust export sector, especially the garment trade which brings in valuable foreign currency into the country. Bangladesh’s finance minister AHM Mustafa Kamal has denied that the country’s facing any economic woes saying that the government would take an IMF loan only if conditions were favourable. “If the IMF conditions are in favour of the country and compatible with our development policy, we’ll go for it, otherwise not,” Kamal told reporters. “Seeking a loan from the IMF does not mean Bangladesh’s economy is in bad shape.” Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves fell to $39.7bn in July down from $45.5bn a year earlier. It would cover over five months worth of imports. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh seeks bailout package from IMF as huge import bill takes toll on economy

After Sri Lanka and Pakistan, Bangladesh has made a request to the IMF for a loan. Is Dhaka dealing with a financial crisis? Palki Sharma brings you an assessment.

Gravitas: Bangladesh wants a loan from the IMF

In Bangladesh, the government will start talks on a loan from the international monetary fund. The country's finance minister made it clear that seeking a loan from the IMF does not mean that Bangladesh's economy is in a bad shape.

Bangladesh explores IMF aid as deficit widens

Last week, the Hindu community in Bangladesh was targeted again. A temple and several houses of Hindus were vandalised in southwestern Bangladesh. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Angry mob targets Hindus again in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has been ranked as the 7th saddest country by Gallup. Despite its meteoric economic rise, why has Bangladesh landed so low on this list? What does it reveal about the nature of Bangladesh's prosperity? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary | Bangladesh ranked 7th saddest country

Climate disasters are pushing children in Bangladesh out of schools and into the workforce. Almost 1.7 million Bangladeshi children are currently working as labourers. How is climate change spurring child labour? What is the Bangladesh government doing about it? Mariam Wardak tells you.

South Asia Diary | Climate change spurs child labour in Bangladesh

China is claiming credit for Bangladesh's longest bridge over the Padma river. Dhaka has rejected the assertion by revealing that foreign funds were not used in the construction process. Mariam Wardak gets you a report.

South Asia Diary | China claims credit for Bangladesh's longest bridge

Millions are affected due to the monsoon fury in South Asia, over 200 have died in India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh authorities brace for water-borne diseases. Scientists have blamed climate change for this monsoon fury.

WION Climate Tracker | Millions affected by deadly floods in South Asia

The monsoon in Bangladesh was like never before, one and a half months later the situation is still dire. At least 102 people have lost their lives, over 7 million need immediate help and hundreds of thousands have been internally displaced due to the floods.

WION Climate Tracker | Floods in Bangladesh wash away homes, schools | Sylhet remains worst hit

After great anticipation, the World Bank&nbsp;recently&nbsp;released&nbsp;'The Global Findex Report 2021'. The Global Findex surveys over 125,000 adults in 123 economies during COVID-19 to better understand how people use formal and informal financial services and digital payment.

In its Global Findex Database 2021, the World Bank highlighted that account ownership worldwide increased by 50&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;to reach 76&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of the global adult population. Recent growth in account ownership has been widespread across dozens of developing economies and most of the newly account opened in India and China.

This report indicates that "74 per cent&nbsp;of men had an account in developing countries whereas women are six&nbsp;points behind, accounts for 68 per cent". According to the report, gaps in rural areas exist but this report couldn't quantity the urban-rural gap. However in developing countries like India and Bangladesh, there is virtually no difference in account ownership between adults in urban and rural areas.

Here are the major insights from the report:

1.&nbsp;Receiving payment directly into bank account is a gateway for using other financial services such as relying on an account to save and borrow. 83&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adult in developing nation who received digital payment also made a digital payment, up from 79&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in 2017.

2.&nbsp;Mobile money has become enabler of financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa,&nbsp;especially for women. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to all 11 economies in which a larger share of adults-only had mobile money account rather that a normal bank account. The spread of mobile money has created better opportunities to serve women, poor people and other groups who have been traditionally excluded from formal financial services. According to the report, around three&nbsp;out of&nbsp;four&nbsp;mobile owners in Sub-Saharan Africa used their mobile money account to make or receive at least one payment that was not person-to-person.​

3.&nbsp;COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed growth in the use of digital payments. In developing countries in 2021, 18&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults paid utility bills directly from an account. About one third of these paid bills online for the first time. In India, more than 80 million adults made their first digital payment to merchant during pandemic whereas in China, 82&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults made a digital payment in 2022, including over 100 million adults (11 per cent) who did so for the first time after the start of pandemic.

4.&nbsp;Government, private employers and financial providers could help expand financial access and usage among the unbanked by lowering barriers and improving infrastructure. This report indicates new opportunities to drive financial inclusion by increasing account ownership among the unbanked and expanding the use of financial among those who already have account - in particular by leveraging digital payments.

5.&nbsp;Adults in developing countries are more likely to worry about finances than adults in high-income countries. Concerns around medical expenses are highest in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where 64 per cent&nbsp;of adults are very worried and the lowest in East Asia and the Pacific, where 38&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;of adults are very worried.​​​

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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After great anticipation, the World Bank recently released 'The Global Findex Report 2021'. The Global Findex surveys over 125,000 adults in 123 economies during COVID-19 to better understand how people use formal and informal financial services and digital payment.

After great anticipation, the World Bank recently released 'The Global Findex Report 2021'. The Global Findex surveys over 125,000 adults in 123 economies during COVID-19 to better understand how people use formal and informal financial services and digital payment. In its Global Findex Database 2021, the World Bank highlighted that account ownership worldwide increased by 50 per cent to reach 76 per cent of the global adult population. Recent growth in account ownership has been widespread across dozens of developing economies and most of the newly account opened in India and China. This report indicates that "74 per cent of men had an account in developing countries whereas women are six points behind, accounts for 68 per cent". According to the report, gaps in rural areas exist but this report couldn't quantity the urban-rural gap. However in developing countries like India and Bangladesh, there is virtually no difference in account ownership between adults in urban and rural areas. Here are the major insights from the report: 1. Receiving payment directly into bank account is a gateway for using other financial services such as relying on an account to save and borrow. 83 per cent of adult in developing nation who received digital payment also made a digital payment, up from 79 per cent in 2017. 2. Mobile money has become enabler of financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially for women. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to all 11 economies in which a larger share of adults-only had mobile money account rather that a normal bank account. The spread of mobile money has created better opportunities to serve women, poor people and other groups who have been traditionally excluded from formal financial services. According to the report, around three out of four mobile owners in Sub-Saharan Africa used their mobile money account to make or receive at least one payment that was not person-to-person. 3. COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed growth in the use of digital payments. In developing countries in 2021, 18 per cent of adults paid utility bills directly from an account. About one third of these paid bills online for the first time. In India, more than 80 million adults made their first digital payment to merchant during pandemic whereas in China, 82 per cent of adults made a digital payment in 2022, including over 100 million adults (11 per cent) who did so for the first time after the start of pandemic. 4. Government, private employers and financial providers could help expand financial access and usage among the unbanked by lowering barriers and improving infrastructure. This report indicates new opportunities to drive financial inclusion by increasing account ownership among the unbanked and expanding the use of financial among those who already have account - in particular by leveraging digital payments. 5. Adults in developing countries are more likely to worry about finances than adults in high-income countries. Concerns around medical expenses are highest in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where 64 per cent of adults are very worried and the lowest in East Asia and the Pacific, where 38 per cent of adults are very worried. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pandemic catalysed growth in use of digital payments: Report

Bangladesh's exports increased by more than 34% to $52.08 billion in the fiscal year 2021–2022 (July 2021-June 2022). The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), which is part of the Ministry of Commerce, revealed data on Sunday showing that Bangladesh had the greatest export earnings for the fiscal year 2021–2022, with strong income growth in the last months. 
 
"In the 2021-22 fiscal year, exports reached $52,082.66 million, setting a new record," said the EPB.

The nation's entire export earnings in the previous fiscal year exceeded the objective of $43.50 billion with June's export earnings of $4.91 billion, an increase of 37.19% over the same month a year prior. In the fiscal year 2020–21 (July 2020–June 2021), Bangladesh's export revenue was estimated at $38.76 billion. As usual, the demand for ready-made clothing was mostly responsible for the growth in the 2021–22 fiscal year.

Bangladesh's exports of clothing, which have accounted for more than three-fourths of the nation's yearly incomes since the start of this decade, increased to $42.61 billion in the fiscal year 2021–22.

Knitwear exports increased 36.88% year over year to $23.21 billion, while woven exports increased 33.82% to $19.40 billion. 
 
The EPB statistics revealed that many other conventional export goods, such as frozen meals, home textiles, leather and leather products, and footwear, also did well over the mentioned period.

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Bangladesh's exports increased by more than 34% to $52.08 billion in the fiscal year 2021–2022 (July 2021-June 2022). The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), which is part of the Ministry of Commerce, revealed data on Sunday showing that Bangladesh had the greatest export earnings for the fiscal year 2021–2022, with strong income growth in the last months.

Bangladesh's exports increased by more than 34% to $52.08 billion in the fiscal year 2021–2022 (July 2021-June 2022). The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB), which is part of the Ministry of Commerce, revealed data on Sunday showing that Bangladesh had the greatest export earnings for the fiscal year 2021–2022, with strong income growth in the last months. "In the 2021-22 fiscal year, exports reached $52,082.66 million, setting a new record," said the EPB. The nation's entire export earnings in the previous fiscal year exceeded the objective of $43.50 billion with June's export earnings of $4.91 billion, an increase of 37.19% over the same month a year prior. In the fiscal year 2020–21 (July 2020–June 2021), Bangladesh's export revenue was estimated at $38.76 billion. As usual, the demand for ready-made clothing was mostly responsible for the growth in the 2021–22 fiscal year. Bangladesh's exports of clothing, which have accounted for more than three-fourths of the nation's yearly incomes since the start of this decade, increased to $42.61 billion in the fiscal year 2021–22. Knitwear exports increased 36.88% year over year to $23.21 billion, while woven exports increased 33.82% to $19.40 billion. The EPB statistics revealed that many other conventional export goods, such as frozen meals, home textiles, leather and leather products, and footwear, also did well over the mentioned period. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rising Bangladesh exports hit all-time high of over $52 bn in FY 2021-22

Padma Bridge, which is Bangladesh’s biggest infrastructure project till now, was finally inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday. The much-awaited bridge will give a big boost to the nation’s development index. It will also improve India’s connectivity to Dhaka through road, rail and ports. The design and construction of the Padma Bridge is the achievement of several people and organisations, said Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, director of the project.&nbsp;This multipurpose bridge has been built over Padma River. It is a two-level road-rail bridge. It is currently the longest bridge in the country.

The Padma Bridge’s design was made by AECOM of New Zealand. The design work of the bridge began in 2009 in Hong Kong in collaboration with North West Hydraulic Consultants of Canada, ACME International of Australia and ACE Consultants Limited of Bangladesh. The AECOM team designing the bridge was led by a British citizen, Robin Shyam. &nbsp;

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The travelling distance to Dhaka from the Indian border at Benapole will now get reduced by over 70 km by road. The travel time will also be shortened by 4.30 hours. The journey time from Kolkata to Dhaka by train will also be reduced by half. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Padma Bridge, which is Bangladesh’s biggest infrastructure project till now, was finally inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday. The much-awaited bridge will give a big boost to the nation’s development index.

Padma Bridge, which is Bangladesh’s biggest infrastructure project till now, was finally inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday. The much-awaited bridge will give a big boost to the nation’s development index. It will also improve India’s connectivity to Dhaka through road, rail and ports. The design and construction of the Padma Bridge is the achievement of several people and organisations, said Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, director of the project. This multipurpose bridge has been built over Padma River. It is a two-level road-rail bridge. It is currently the longest bridge in the country. The Padma Bridge’s design was made by AECOM of New Zealand. The design work of the bridge began in 2009 in Hong Kong in collaboration with North West Hydraulic Consultants of Canada, ACME International of Australia and ACE Consultants Limited of Bangladesh. The AECOM team designing the bridge was led by a British citizen, Robin Shyam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE The travelling distance to Dhaka from the Indian border at Benapole will now get reduced by over 70 km by road. The travel time will also be shortened by 4.30 hours. The journey time from Kolkata to Dhaka by train will also be reduced by half. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Grand project: Finally, Bangladesh unveils multipurpose bridge on Padma River

Bangladesh's impressive economic rise has a hidden cost - the death of its rivers. The garment industry has been accused of releasing harmful chemicals into rivers and making the water unsuitable for daily use. Mariam Wardak gets you a report.

South Asia Diary | Why are Bangladesh's rivers dying?

Bangladesh on Saturday opened an important bridge near the capital Dhaka after a long construction plagued by delays, graft allegations, and even deadly lynchings sparked by rumours of human sacrifice.

The inauguration of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge now officially the country's longest caps a key infrastructure goal by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the nearly eight years since construction began.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-bangladeshs-rivers-have-paid-the-price-for-garment-driven-economic-boom-490367">How Bangladesh's rivers have paid the price for garment-driven economic boom</a>

It ends an economic bottleneck that required freight destined for the country's poverty-stricken south and the Indian megacity of Kolkata to be slowly ferried over the Padma river, a major tributary of the mighty Ganges.

"This bridge is not just bricks, cement, iron, and concrete," Hasina told a crowd of nearly a million people who had gathered along the river's banks for its opening ceremony.&nbsp;

"This bridge is our pride, a symbol of our capacity, strength and dignity," the leader added.

But the project was also burdened by other, more vexing associations even before work began.&nbsp;

Bangladesh financed the $3.87 billion project itself after corruption allegations saw the World Bank and other lenders withdraw finance.

Canadian engineering firm SNC-Lavalin was banned from bidding on World Bank projects for a decade after it was accused of bribing officials over the project.

Watch |&nbsp;Flash floods hit parts of Bangladesh: 2,700 diarrhoea cases reported this week

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Prosecutors in Canada eventually declined to pursue corruption charges against company executives after a court ruled some wiretap evidence against them was inadmissible.&nbsp;

Engineers said building challenges for the project were "immense" as siltation left the bottom of the Padma river unstable, making it difficult to place spans and helping blow out the bridge's finish date by four years.&nbsp;

And in 2019, eight people were killed in vigilante lynchings sparked by social media rumours of children being kidnapped and sacrificed as offerings for the bridge's construction.&nbsp;

More than 30 others were attacked in connection with the rumours, mostly spread on Facebook, that said human heads were needed to help finish the project.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fms-of-india-bangladesh-sri-lanka-to-attend-commonwealth-summit-in-rwanda-maldives-by-its-president-490016">India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka FMs, Maldives president to attend Commonwealth Summit in Rwanda</a>

Despite its troubles, the 6.2 kilometres (3.8-mile) road and rail link has long been signposted as one of the most significant endeavours of Hasina's tenure.

Local media reported breathlessly on minor construction milestones, such as the completion of one of its 41 concrete spans.&nbsp;

Major roads across Dhaka were festooned with lights, lasers and decorations to mark Saturday's inauguration.&nbsp;

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Bangladesh on Saturday opened an important bridge near the capital Dhaka after a long construction plagued by delays, graft allegations, and even deadly lynchings sparked by rumours of human sacrifice.

Bangladesh on Saturday opened an important bridge near the capital Dhaka after a long construction plagued by delays, graft allegations, and even deadly lynchings sparked by rumours of human sacrifice. The inauguration of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge now officially the country's longest caps a key infrastructure goal by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the nearly eight years since construction began. Also read | How Bangladesh's rivers have paid the price for garment-driven economic boom It ends an economic bottleneck that required freight destined for the country's poverty-stricken south and the Indian megacity of Kolkata to be slowly ferried over the Padma river, a major tributary of the mighty Ganges. "This bridge is not just bricks, cement, iron, and concrete," Hasina told a crowd of nearly a million people who had gathered along the river's banks for its opening ceremony. "This bridge is our pride, a symbol of our capacity, strength and dignity," the leader added. But the project was also burdened by other, more vexing associations even before work began. Bangladesh financed the $3.87 billion project itself after corruption allegations saw the World Bank and other lenders withdraw finance. Canadian engineering firm SNC-Lavalin was banned from bidding on World Bank projects for a decade after it was accused of bribing officials over the project. Watch | Flash floods hit parts of Bangladesh: 2,700 diarrhoea cases reported this week Prosecutors in Canada eventually declined to pursue corruption charges against company executives after a court ruled some wiretap evidence against them was inadmissible. Engineers said building challenges for the project were "immense" as siltation left the bottom of the Padma river unstable, making it difficult to place spans and helping blow out the bridge's finish date by four years. And in 2019, eight people were killed in vigilante lynchings sparked by social media rumours of children being kidnapped and sacrificed as offerings for the bridge's construction. More than 30 others were attacked in connection with the rumours, mostly spread on Facebook, that said human heads were needed to help finish the project. Also read | India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka FMs, Maldives president to attend Commonwealth Summit in Rwanda Despite its troubles, the 6.2 kilometres (3.8-mile) road and rail link has long been signposted as one of the most significant endeavours of Hasina's tenure. Local media reported breathlessly on minor construction milestones, such as the completion of one of its 41 concrete spans. Major roads across Dhaka were festooned with lights, lasers and decorations to mark Saturday's inauguration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Once plagued by graft claims, lynchings, Bangladesh's Padma Multipurpose Bridge opens to public

Flash floods have wreaked havoc in parts of Bangladesh. According to UNICEF, 3.5 million children need clean drinking water amid diarrhoea cases being reported.

Flash floods hit parts of Bangladesh: 2,700 diarrhoea cases reported this week

Torrential rain and catastrophic floods are wreaking havoc. In Bangladesh, 69 people lost their lives, relief operations and evacuations on our underway. Currently 9.5 million people are stranded without any basic commodities. Authorities have ramped up efforts to deliver food and drinking water to the region but constant rain is now hampering the process.

Climate change made flooding worse in South Asia

Bangladesh is facing its worst flooding in 20 years, at least 69 people have died so far and 9.5 million people remain stranded. Residents are struggling to find shelter.

Bangladesh floods displace millions, residents struggling to find shelter

The Bangladesh economy has grown at a healthy rate in the last few decades with the garment trade contributing for the majority of it. The booming industry accounts for around 80 per cent of Bangladesh’s annual exports and as a result, they have gone ahead of neighbours India when it comes to per capita income. However, this growth has come at a huge cost – the environment.

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The rivers of Bangladesh have borne the brunt of development as the constant dumping of dyes, tanning acids and other chemicals has caused serious environmental damage. The toxicity of the rivers has started affecting citizens who are suffering from various skin conditions and according to AFP, an expert went to the extent of calling the Buriganga river “the largest sewer of the country”.

"It is now the largest sewer of the country," said Sheikh Rokon, the head of the Riverine People environmental rights group. "For centuries people built their homes on its banks to bask in the river breeze. Now the smell of toxic sludge during winter is so horrible that people have to hold their noses as they come near it,” he said about the condition of the river, according to the AFP report.

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A paper by the government’s River Research Institute found the levels of chromium and cadmium in the country’s rivers are over six times that of the normal level. These are elements found in chemicals used in the garment industry and according to WHO, extremely dangerous for humans.

The study also found traces of phenol, ammonia and other chemicals used in fabric dyeing which are extremely corrosive in nature and even turn fatal for the marine life in the Bangladeshi rivers.

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The Bangladesh economy has grown at a healthy rate in the last few decades with the garment trade contributing for the majority of it. The booming industry accounts for around 80 per cent of Bangladesh’s annual exports and as a result, they have gone ahead of neighbours India when it comes to per capita income.

The Bangladesh economy has grown at a healthy rate in the last few decades with the garment trade contributing for the majority of it. The booming industry accounts for around 80 per cent of Bangladesh’s annual exports and as a result, they have gone ahead of neighbours India when it comes to per capita income. However, this growth has come at a huge cost – the environment. Also read | Putin 'proud' of Russian troops; says SARMAT would be commissioned this year The rivers of Bangladesh have borne the brunt of development as the constant dumping of dyes, tanning acids and other chemicals has caused serious environmental damage. The toxicity of the rivers has started affecting citizens who are suffering from various skin conditions and according to AFP, an expert went to the extent of calling the Buriganga river “the largest sewer of the country”. "It is now the largest sewer of the country," said Sheikh Rokon, the head of the Riverine People environmental rights group. "For centuries people built their homes on its banks to bask in the river breeze. Now the smell of toxic sludge during winter is so horrible that people have to hold their noses as they come near it,” he said about the condition of the river, according to the AFP report. Also read | Twitter takeover deal remains deadlocked over fake users, says Elon Musk A paper by the government’s River Research Institute found the levels of chromium and cadmium in the country’s rivers are over six times that of the normal level. These are elements found in chemicals used in the garment industry and according to WHO, extremely dangerous for humans. The study also found traces of phenol, ammonia and other chemicals used in fabric dyeing which are extremely corrosive in nature and even turn fatal for the marine life in the Bangladeshi rivers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How Bangladesh's rivers have paid the price for garment-driven economic boom

Devastating floods are wreaking havoc in the South Asian nation of Bangladesh. At least 25 were killed and millions have been displaced because of floods.

At least 25 killed, millions displaced in devastating floods in Bangladesh

Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the Padma Bridge - multipurpose road-rail bridge has been entirely funded by the Bangladesh and no foreign funds have financially contributed to its construction.

Padma Bridge Not Part Of China's Belt and Road Initiative, says Bangladesh

Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen spoke with Sidhant Sibbal, WION's Principle Diplomatic Correspondent. He said, trade between India & Bangladesh is flourishing. The two nations have a wonderful relationship.

'Trade between India & Bangladesh is flourishing,' says AK Abdul Momen on WION

Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen spoke with Sidhant Sibbal, WION's Principle Diplomatic Correspondent. He said, no foreign funds used to build Padma bridge.

WION Exclusive: 'Padma bridge not made by China,' says Bangladesh FM AK Abdul Momen

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