Permanent solution to Monga demanded

They suggested some measures, including increasing production of crops, reducing the rate of toll at the Jamuna Bridge by 50 percent and establishing fertiliser factory.

Uttarbango Jonokalyan Samity organised the press briefing on "Monga in the North, huge destruction by the recent flood and need for permanent solution" at the National Press Club in the city. Khandaker Azadur Rahman Peinge, president of the Samity, presented a written statement.

Speakers said, although the contribution of northern region in agriculture is the largest, Monga is a regular phenomenon in that part of the country due to lack of infrastructure, industrial support and communication.

Meanwhile recent floods in Naogaon, Sirajganj, Kushtia, Panchagarh, Gaibandha, Nilfamari, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat and Joypurhat caused loss of crops worth Tk 2000 crore.

The government should immediately take steps for agricultural rehabilitation, reconstruction of roads including the linked canal of Tista Embankment, said the speakers.

Modabber Hossain, senior joint secretary and Tajul Islam, assistant president of the Samity, were also present at the briefing.