Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said difficult times lie ahead as oil and commodity prices are set to increase.
He made these remarks as the chief guest after inaugurating the Neha River excavation programme in Roypur Union of Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila on Monday.
He stated, “A very good time is not ahead of us, a difficult time is. The war is harming us greatly. In the future, the price of oil will increase, and the price of goods will increase. We have to move forward by enduring those.”
Addressing the political and religious context, Fakhrul added, “Religion cannot be used. Ninety percent of the people of the country are religious. They do not like business with religion. We have come to work. We will continue to work.”
He further noted that some attempt to deceive women with promises, urging them not to be misled. “One cannot go to heaven without the satisfaction of Allah. One must be honest and consume a halal income. Otherwise, one cannot go to heaven,” he stated, while also emphasising the need to excavate canals in an honest and proper manner.
Regarding the ongoing oil crisis, Fakhrul explained that supply is low due to the war but cautioned that “vandalising pumps is not appropriate.”
He issued a stern warning against lawlessness, stating, “We will suppress the mob with a heavy hand. We will not allow any work outside the law by force.”
Regarding agriculture, he noted that crops such as wheat and potatoes have been damaged by storms and rain. “This is the fate of our farmers. We understand these problems. Before the election, we promised to waive agricultural loans. We have done it,” he said.
He highlighted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is implementing initiatives to assist farmers, including the distribution of Family Cards to millions of women nationwide. He assured that all national projects, including the excavation of 20,000 canals, would be completed.
The event was attended by State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad, Deputy Commissioner Ishrat Farzana, and Superintendent of Police Belal Hossain, along with other officials, BNP leaders, and residents.
