PM to visit Lalmonirhat on Nov 19: Minister

Prime Minister is scheduled to visit Lalmonirhat on November 19 to observe the activities of the social development initiative ‘Alokito Lalmonirhat’.

Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu announced this on Sunday morning while addressing a large cycling rally organised under the ‘Alokito Lalmonirhat’ programme.

Describing the upcoming visit as a historic and joyful occasion for the district, Dulu said the prime minister would personally witness the initiative's activities and progress.

"The arrival of our beloved leader and honourable prime minister at a programme organised by a voluntary committee is a matter of immense joy for us, beyond what words can express. This will become a bright chapter in the history of our district.''

The minister also recalled that the committee's journey began on July 4 under the initiative of the then president.

Highlighting the organisation's role in social reform, Dulu said crimes and social problems such as drug abuse, casino-related activities and child marriage had declined significantly in Lalmonirhat.

"If we can sustain this progress, one day we will be able to proudly say that our collective efforts have brought 13 social evils in the district under complete control," he said.

He said the initiative was gradually fulfilling its commitment to bringing 1.5 million people across five upazilas — Patgram, Hatibandha, Kaliganj, Aditmari and Lalmonirhat Sadar — back to healthy and constructive social lives.

Activities have also begun with considerable enthusiasm in other upazilas, he added.

According to the minister, around 15,000 volunteers are currently working with dedication under the ‘Alokito Lalmonirhat’ initiative, setting an example for society.

Emphasising the importance of cycling for physical fitness, Dulu said modern lifestyles and increasing dependence on technology had led many people to abandon the habit.

"Yet cycling is extremely important for keeping our bodies healthy and active," he said.

Recalling the initial response to his call for the cycling programme, the minister said many people had questioned where so many bicycles would come from.

"But today, looking at Suhrawardy Field, I see bicycles everywhere. The entire area has turned red. People's spontaneous participation inspires me and proves that this initiative has received widespread public support," he said.

Dulu also recalled cycling with participants on several occasions, travelling through villages and across all five upazilas. He thanked the leaders and activists who joined the rally.

Following the inauguration, the minister and other participants set off from Railway Suhrawardy Field, cycling through Mission Mor and other major roads in the town.

The rally concluded successfully at the field of Abul Kashem College in Boro Bari Bazar.