MAILBOX
Asia Cup
The score of the Bangladesh team in the first match of the Asia Cup was not enough to win but it did show the immense patriotism and strong commitment of Tamim Iqbal. Even with a severe wrist injury, Tamim Iqbal set an exemplary display by playing one-handed in the match. It seemed a different Bangladesh team that what we ordinarily witness. When the Sri Lankans came to chase the score given by Bangladesh (thanks to the innings by Mushfique), the bowling and fielding were outstanding. We hope such good qualities will continue in the next cricketing generation so that as a nation we can feel proud of our professional cricket team. We hope all the cricketers perform their duty with such immense patriotism and strong commitment to the game.
Abul Khaer
Govt Saadat College, Tangail
River erosion
River erosion makes people homeless overnight and nothing can be saved if it touches areas where people live. Bangladesh is a densely populated riverine country and as a result, river erosion is a common phenomenon for those living on the riverbanks. Many reasons can be found for the damage caused by river erosion but inadequate planning and disaster preparedness by the government is definitely one. Recently, it was reported in The Daily Star that the mighty Padma swallowed a big portion of Naria upazila in Shariatpur district where thousands of people became homeless in a couple of nights. They lost everything they had. An embankment is set to be built, starting only in next November. If timely action had been taken by the government, such extensive damage could have been avoided. As always, the Water Development Board initiates many projects on paper but the real picture is quite different and few projects come to fruition. We urge the government to ensure timely measures to save people from the dangers of river erosion year after year.
Md Zillur Rahaman
Lalmohan, Bhola
Education and childhood
The present era is extremely competitive with parents trying their level best to get their children the best education possible. Amidst all this, children are losing their childhood. Nowadays, most school-going children spend a major portion of their day on studies—they go home after school only to go again to tuition classes and then once back home, they are flooded with homework assignments and studying for class tests. Majority of the children don't get time for playing or for recreation and as a result, obesity is increasing. Children are also under constant stress and frustration but they can't express it to their parents without being seen as a failure. However, there are certain limitations such as a "culture of tuition" and lack of open spaces for playing in Dhaka city. Even when there are, some parents don't allow their children to go out on their own due to safety concerns. In the end, children are losing from all aspects. These matters cannot be solved or changed easily but surely with proper awareness, appropriate measures can be taken. After all, childhood is not all about carrying heavy school bags—it is the time we make some of the best memories which we cherish throughout the rest of our lives.
Rafid Alam
Mohammadpur, Dhaka
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