Letters to the Editor

Solar power for irrigation
Recently I came across a news report of your daily, “Solar solution for Jhenidah farmers,” which I consider an eye-opener for rural farm irrigation. In contrast to the usual diesel-fueled engine driven pumps, this pump uses solar power. This should gradually replace the water pumps driven by diesel engine that is fueled by imported diesel. We should carry out a programme that promotes using free sunlight as a power source for voltaic panels supplying power to irrigation pumps. The government must take steps regarding this issue urgently so that it helps rural farmers who are the real backbone of the nation.
Engr. SA Mansoor, Dhaka

April 28 as Bangladeshi April Fools' Day!
We urge the Awami League not to say that the January 5 general election and the recently held mayoral election were free and fair. Our voting rights have been robbed; it seems like they're rubbing salt on fresh wounds.
Though it was not 1st of April, the Election Commission played the April Fools' joke on  April 28. People were duped about the deployment of armed forces during the voting process and cadres of AL and members of law enforcing agencies ensured that candidates of the AL came out 
victorious.
The wounds inflicted on the people will not heal; it will fester unless and until an acceptable election is held.
Nur Jahan
Chittagong