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Letters to the Editor

The economic cost of unrest

Friday, 19 July 2024



The recent report on economic loss sustained by Bangladesh to the tune of Tk 65 billion daily amid the ongoing unrest is deeply concerning. The combination of blockades and violent clashes over quota reform has strained our economy significantly. This is on top of high inflation, interest rates, US dollar shortage, non-performing loans, and external debt repayments.
The severe economic impact of these disruptions cannot be overstated. As Mahbubul Alam of the FBCCI emphasised, the country loses Tk 65 billion daily due to the unrest. This financial hemorrhage hurts businesses and ordinary citizens alike.
Eminent economists like Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya and Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur highlight that a sustainable and peaceful environment is crucial for economic stability. International investors and buyers are increasingly wary, redirecting their orders to more stable regions. This trend exacerbates our economic woes and tarnishes Bangladesh's image globally. It is imperative all involved resolved the issues through negotiations.

Ahammad Ullah
Muradpur, Chittagong.