Editorial
Getting back into the rhythm
The work cut out for us
THE near deserted look of the capital city certainly conveys a sense of placidity in what is normally a life of hectic activity for us. Realistically speaking, though, this is a welcome lull which will soon be overtaken by the normality we are so accustomed to. But the sheer delight of inhaling fresher air, because of the holidays, should enthuse us into a new realisation of how important it is for us to have a cleaner environment to live and work in.
As the euphoria of Eid wears off, it becomes important that such measures as security for citizens, is handled purposefully. This becomes essential because over the next few days those who have gone out of the capital to spend Eid with their near and dear ones will be returning to the city. Steps against crime must be in place. As such, the authorities should make sure that no slackness is there in ensuring the safety of people. Such security should take into account the movement of buses, trains and riverine vessels, all of which run the risk of accidents both before and after Eid, but especially in the latter period.
The point here is that the country needs to get back into a rhythm. There is the question of politics as it has been shaping up, or been in a state of stagnation, over the past many weeks. The nation will now expect a fresh spurt of rejuvenation to come into politics. Fruitful results are what it will look forward to, obviously in light of the expectations associated with the forthcoming general elections. Add to that the issue of the financial indebtedness faced by the United States economy and the implications of the resultant $700 billion bail-out. To be sure, the impact of the crisis on Bangladesh will be minimal owing to the fact that the country is a recipient of foreign investment in a limited way. Even so, the crisis sends out the strong message that with an economy like ours, we need to place continued emphasis on productivity and diversity in exports. Let it be noted that consumer demand will be changing patterns as a result of changing global conditions, which means our export regime too needs necessary attuning to. There are the rumblings that one keeps hearing within the nation's garments industry. It is one of those crucial areas that need to be kept under watch as we all get back to work after the Eid holidays. There is also the matter of the food supply lines that need to get back on a normal footing. It must be ensured that they are not disrupted.
It is the work ethic that matters, that needs to be back in place. We all need to get back to work, through making sure that our holidays are really over. The tendency to stretch holidays or to go beyond them must be curbed. As we all make our way back to our workplaces, let the rhythm come back, with all its vigour and vitality.
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