No obstacle can stop rebuilding BD: PM

BARISHAL, July 13: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday said his government would not be deterred by any obstacle in its efforts to rebuild Bangladesh as long as it continued to enjoy the support of the people, while calling for collective action to improve both the country's economy and environment.

"We want to rebuild this country and take it forward. The source of the BNP's political strength is the people. As long as the people stand by the BNP, the government will not be deterred by any obstacle," he said during an interaction with women beneficiaries of the government's Family Card programme at Batajor in Gournadi upazila of Barishal.

The Prime Minister said his government was committed to improving the lives of ordinary people and sought support from citizens across the country, regardless of political affiliation, profession or religion.

"I seek the support of people from all walks of life to rebuild the country and move it forward," he said.

During the programme, several beneficiaries shared how the Family Card scheme had eased their financial hardship.

Parul Akter said the monthly assistance had brought positive changes to her family's life.

"I have benefited greatly from receiving this card. It has helped ease my family's financial hardship," she said.

Another beneficiary said the support had enabled her to meet household expenses, buy medicines and continue her children's education.

Referring to their experiences, Tarique Rahman said the government was encouraged to see the programme making a difference.

"Today we heard from our sisters that the Family Card has, at least to some extent, helped them manage their households better. That is our goal. We want our mothers to live a little better and the people of the country to enjoy a better life," he said.

The Prime Minister said the government planned to gradually expand the programme so that every eligible woman across the country could benefit.

Later, inaugurating a tree plantation programme along the Sagardi Canal in Barishal city, the Prime Minister urged citizens to take responsibility for protecting the environment, saying it could not be left to the government alone.

"We must protect our own environment. If we do not keep our homes, neighbourhoods and country clean, we ourselves will suffer," he said.

Around 350 saplings were planted on both sides of the canal as part of the programme. Tarique Rahman urged local residents to care for the trees and help preserve the canal.�"UNB