By the rhythm of nature, winter’s barrenness has long taken its leave. The king of seasons, spring, has spread its vibrant offerings across the land. Yet this year, the charm of spring is not confined to rustic village paths or deep forests; even the modern symbol of progress, the asphalt highway has become nature’s canvas. The Dhaka–Chattogram Highway, known as the lifeline of the country, is no longer merely a route of mechanical movement; it has transformed into a long, blossoming garden. Especially the stretch that runs through Cumilla now appears like an artistic masterpiece painted in the hues of spring. From Daudkandi to the Chattogram City Gate, the 143-kilometer stretch once witnessed only dust and mechanical noise. Today, swaying in the breeze along its median are rows of Krishnachura, Sonalu, and Jarul trees. Under a government initiative, nearly 50,000 saplings of 13 to 25 different species were planted along the highway divider. Those saplings have now grown into mature trees in full bloom. With the presence of Radhachura, Kanchan, Bakul, Kadam, Palash, Tagar, Gardenia, Karabi, Haimanti, and Kurchi, the highway resembles an elongated botanical garden. The approximately 10-kilometer stretch from Nazira Bazar in Cumilla Adarsha Sadar upazila to Katherpul in Chandina presents a scene that no traveler can ignore. From Nazira Bazar to Korpoi in Burichang, the bluish-purple blossoms of Jarul cast a magical spell; from Korpoi to Katherpul, the bold red Sonail flowers captivate passersby. Looking out of a moving bus window, one might think a skilled artist has painted intricate floral patterns along the middle of the road. Parallel to the black asphalt, this festival of colors instantly relieves the fatigue of urban life. Behind this beauty lies not only aesthetic appeal but also a thoughtful engineering vision. According to the careful planning of the Roads and Highways Department, these trees were planted with two primary objectives. First, to enhance the visual appeal of the highway and provide mental comfort to passengers. Second, and most importantly to shield drivers from the intense glare of headlights from oncoming vehicles at night. This green wall, or “living barrier,” acts as a protective shield against accidents while also nurturing environmental balance. Regular highway travelers express deep admiration for this transformation. Residents of Chandina note that since the highway was expanded into four lanes and adorned with colorful blossoms, its character has changed dramatically. Foreign visitors traveling along this route often gaze in amazement; many stop their vehicles to take photographs and videos. When images of this beautifully decorated highway circulate beyond national borders, it fills the hearts of citizens with pride. It is no longer just a road; it has become a new representation of Bangladesh on the global stage. Officials and workers of the Roads and Highways Department continue to care diligently for these trees. Braving sun and rain, they ensure that each tree thrives in its own glory. Although adverse weather conditions have caused some trees to wither in certain areas, new saplings are planned to be planted in the upcoming monsoon season, promising to further enrich the landscape. On warm spring afternoons, when heat radiates from the asphalt, these rows of trees and clusters of blossoms offer a soothing touch. For the roadside communities and thousands of daily travelers, this highway now feels like a long poem. Amid the rush of mechanical civilization, the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway teaches us that when development and nature walk hand in hand, even an ordinary journey can transform into a heavenly experience. May the colors of spring remain everlasting on this royal road,this is the heartfelt wish of every traveler heading home.

The Iliotganj Highway Police arrested a drug dealer with 20 kg of cannabis during a drive on the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway in Chandina, Cumilla. Based on a secret tip-off, the narcotics were recovered on Friday (February 27) afternoon after searching a private car in front of Khalek Mishtanna Bhandar, located west of the Madhaiya Bazar footover bridge. The arrested individual has been identified as Russel Mia (29), son of Golam Mostafa, hailing from Sahero Haola village under Barguna District Sadar Police Station.According to police sources, a special team led by the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Iliotganj Highway Police Station, Md. Ruhul Amin, conducted the operation. During the drive, they intercepted a suspicious private car and recovered 20 kg of cannabis upon inspection. Following the incident, Sub-Inspector (SI) Md. Monirul Islam Chowdhury prepared the seizure list at the spot and brought the accused, the seized drugs, and the vehicle to the station.Regarding the matter, OC Md. Ruhul Amin stated that the operation was carried out in the Madhaiya area of the highway based on confidential information, leading to the arrest of Russel Mia with the illegal substance. A regular narcotics case has been filed against him, and he has been sent to Cumilla District Jail following due legal procedures.

An earthquake has shaken the entire country, including the capital. The tremor was felt at 1:54 PM on Friday (February 27). According to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the earthquake measured 5.3 on the Richter scale. The agency reported that the epicenter was located 47 kilometers southwest of Khulna district town and 18 kilometers southeast of Satkhira. The depth of the earthquake was 35 kilometers below the surface.The tremor was felt not only in the capital, Dhaka, but also in several southwestern districts of the country and in some areas of neighboring India (such as Barasat). So far, no reports of damage or casualties have been received as a result of the earthquake. As several earthquakes have been felt in Bangladesh toward the end of this month, panic has spread among the general public. However, no major damage has been reported so far. The disaster management authorities have advised everyone to remain alert in case of emergencies.