Stories from Dhaka · Bangladesh

Nuclear fuel loading has commenced in a reactor in Bangladesh. This reactor is part of the first power unit built with Russian participation. The development follows the clearing of the site for the plant. This unit was constructed with the participation of Russia. The process follows developments in fundamental sciences including mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Prime Minister Mishustin noted that the project involves fundamental science and automation. The facility utilizes industrial robots and automation systems. Russia's State Nuclear Energy Corporation announced it has begun loading fuel into the first reactor at a power plant located in Bangladesh. The action was confirmed by the corporation. This action marks a step in the facility's start-up phase. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to meet up to 10% of Bangladesh's total power demands.

The New Zealand cricket team, the Blackcaps, lost the first of three T20 matches against Bangladesh. New Zealand scored 182 for six after batting first. Bangladesh successfully chased the target, reaching 183 for four in the 18th over, winning by six wickets. The New Zealand Blackcaps are down 1-0 in their three-match T20 series against Bangladesh after a poor opening game. Batting first, the Blackcaps scored 182 for six, a score they believed would be around par. Dame Cleaver and opener Cassidy Clarke both scored 51 runs.

Indian photojournalist Raghu has passed away at the age of 83. He reportedly embraced digital photography without difficulty during his career. He was noted for his transition from traditional film to digital photography while maintaining high technical standards. He remained passionate about image quality and large-scale prints throughout his career. His work involved meticulous processing similar to traditional negative development. The broadcast highlighted the prolific work of photographer Raghu, noting his body of work in Bangladesh. The late photographer's work included color photography of the Taj Mahal and frequent visits to Kolkata. The photographer's recent work includes a book on Bangladesh titled The Price of Freedom. The journalist was noted for his influential photography of the 1971 Bangladesh conflict.

Bangladeshi photographer and activist Shahid al-Alam is remembered for his sensitivity and ability to capture both ordinary and extraordinary moments in Indian history. He photographed prominent figures like Mother Teresa and Indira Gandhi, and was adept at working in both color and black and white. His work is described as having a tactile element. His portfolio features a amount of black and white photography alongside contemporary pieces. His legacy includes diverse subjects ranging from historical landmarks to contemporary scenes. He maintained traditional craft principles while utilizing modern tools like the iPhone for high-quality imagery. His work was noted for its ability to produce large-scale blow-ups. He remained passionate about the quality of digital imagery throughout his career.

The UNHCR reports over 900 accidents involving Rohingya refugees attempting to cross the sea to Bangladesh and other neighboring countries last year, the highest number on record. One recent incident left 250 people missing. The journey is perilous, with refugees often at sea for weeks in overcrowded boats, leading to a high mortality rate, described as the highest globally for refugee movements. These maritime journeys involve simple, unseaworthy vessels.

Mobile telephony and internet services in Bangladesh are under threat due to shortages of fuel and electricity. The instability poses a significant risk to the country's digital connectivity and communication infrastructure. This development follows ongoing resource constraints in the region. Continued conflict could lead to 45 million additional people facing severe hunger. The Financial Times reports Bangladesh faces risks from the triple pressure of fuel, food, and declining remittances. Foreign workers in the Gulf region remit over $100 billion annually to their home countries. Many workers are returning home due to uncertain economic recovery timelines, impacting South Asian nations particularly hard.