The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed Sunday said the government in near future would go for implementing large-scale physical infrastructure rehabilitation works in the Cyclone 'Sidr' affected coastal belt.

The government is discussing with the representatives of friendly countries and development partners for long-term rehabilitation programme in the coastal belt, he said while receiving donations for the Chief Adviser's Relief and Welfare Fund from individuals, institutions and organizations.

Dr Fakhruddin informed that President of Islamic Development Bank (IDB) has assured to extend cooperation for the rehabilitation work in cyclone-hit areas.

The IDB president made the assurance at a meeting with the Chief Adviser during his stay in Saudi Arabia for performing hajj.

The Chief Adviser said relief operation in the affected areas is almost at the closing stage and the government is giving attention to rehabilitation activities.

Rehabilitation in agriculture sector is getting priority and Krishi Bank and other micro credit institutions are providing loans to farmers and fishermen to help them resume their economic activities.

Krishi Banks branches in the affected areas have strengthened their manpower for quick disbursement of agri-loan.

Dr Fakhruddin said relief operation has been carried out in a commendable manner with the concerted efforts of all including different Ministries, departments and the Armed Forces.

He said the maximum amount of donations to the CA's relief fund is being spent for reconstruction of houses. So far, Tk 130 crore has been allocated and distributed from the fund.

Apprehensions of the outbreak of waterborne diseases in the affected areas were overcome and it did not take place as a result of various efforts, he said.

The Chief Adviser expressed happiness as many Bangladeshi expatriates today (Sunday) made donations and thanked them especially as they came forward guided by their attachment towards the country and compassion for the countrymen.

The day's donors include Liberation War Affairs Ministry; Education Ministry; Social Welfare Ministry; Bangladesh-Australia Association of Western Australia; Bangladesh Air Force Contingent in the UN Mission in Congo; Rabeya Haider; Abeda Majid; Sylhet Society-Uttara;

Delta Life Insurance Co. Ltd.; Bangladesh Textile Mills Association;

Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh, UK Chapter; Cyber Café Owners Association of Bangladesh; OEKO Tex Ltd.; OBAT Helpers Inc (USA); Belal-Sujon-Shilu Campaign Committee of New England, USA;

Computer Source Ltd.; Eric Maloney; Dhaka Expatriate Association in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Bangladeshi expatriate in London Abdul Latif Chowdhury and London Expatriate Balaganj Society.