PM Orders Immediate Removal of Congratulatory Billboards

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has ordered the immediate removal of all digital billboards, banners, and advertising displays featuring congratulatory messages dedicated to him across the capital.

The directive was issued Tuesday (March 3) after the Prime Minister expressed annoyance at a banner featuring his image near Police Plaza, adjacent to Hatirjheel, while leaving his Gulshan residence. According to Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon, the Prime Minister ordered its immediate removal, a task executed on the spot.

The Prime Minister emphasized that no individual or company should use his image for personal praise, urging a focus on government service instead. This follows a similar incident a few days ago at Bijoy Sarani, where he halted a congratulatory LED display.

Earlier today, the Prime Minister arrived at the Secretariat at 9:10 AM. During a courtesy call by Coast Guard Director General Rear Admiral Ziaul Haque, the PM directed the force to intensify security in the Bay of Bengal.

Increasing patrols to combat piracy, human trafficking, and smuggling. Protecting national fisheries and ensuring the safety of fishermen. Adopting modern technology to monitor maritime borders.

A report presented to the Prime Minister today highlighted a slight improvement in Dhaka's traffic congestion. By following normal traffic signals and eschewing traditional "VIP protocol," the Prime Minister and other state officials have contributed to an increase in average vehicle speeds.

Data from the last 14 days shows the capital’s average traffic speed rose from 4.5 km/h to 5.3 km/h. Following the PM’s example, the President and Cabinet Ministers are now also adhering to standard traffic signals to alleviate public suffering.

Addressing the rising cost of living, the Prime Minister ordered the Food Ministry to take immediate action against the price hike of "coarse rice," a staple for marginalized communities. Following this "tough stance," retail markets have reportedly shown a positive response, with the PM warning against any artificial crises created by hoarders.