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Launch disasters
I refer to various letters, articles, comments etc., on this tragic matter from home and abroad. This and practically all other ills of our hapless society can be traced to the relentless force of 'Population Pressure' on our resources and psyche. In our country human life seems to the cheapest commodity and this accords with the laws of economics that the value of any commodity is dependent on its 'relative scarcity'. Successive governments in Bangladesh have failed to curb the explosion of population as a priority, often misguidedly believing that a large population is a source of economic strength. So people are what we now have in utmost abundance on every square foot of soil or water surface of Bangladesh, and that is why according to the economic principle it is now the cheapest commodity. It is no wonder people are dying on the roads, the rivers, of
malnutrition and ill health, and as victims of criminal gangs, unbridled corruption, extortion, etc.
The firm lead for population control, and ease from population pressure must come from lite government and the intelligentsia, and all political parties must support this programme wholeheartedly for the sake of the nation whether they are in power or not. A much larger part of the national budget and more intensive and accountable efforts must be taken up to achieve a negative growth of population and better health of people, so that human life becomes the most precious commodity rather than the cheapest. There is no time for hand wringing or procrastination. The government and other political parties must combine their sorrow to start now!
Engineer Shafi Ahmed
London, UK
Launch disasters have become common during any major festival. Due to the negligence of some corrupt and insensible people so many lives are lost every year. The authorities are turning a blind eye to the problem and no action has been taken against those crimi-nals.
We can never say that these disasters occur naturally, there are a number of reasons behind these including the irresponsibility of the authorities and unreliable behaviours of launch owners in a captive market. The government should take immediate measures for establishing a risk free riverine transport system and eradicate the irregularities and corruption.
It is a pathetic sight to see people waiting for the dead bodies of their loved ones, or children, rescued sans parents, wailing on the dead bodies. One such incident can ruin one's entire life.
Can't we deploy additional magistrates and police forces to oversee operation of river vessels during major festivals and also during nor'wester seasons?
Badal Hasib
SlBT.Sylhet
To be homebound during vacation is the natural urge of people and on these days people want to spend their time with their near and dear ones. And sometimes for coming home, they risk their lives boarding overloaded vessels and vehicles.
If we become a little bit conscious regarding the matter, we can escape such situations.
BIpra Kanungo
Momin road. Chittaeone