DHAKA (Web Desk) — The government has announced a seven-day public holiday from May 25 to May 31 on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, following a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, according to an official statement.
Government offices will remain operational on May 23 and 24 to facilitate administrative work ahead of the extended break.
The cabinet also approved the draft National Public Toilet Policy 2026, aimed at ensuring widespread access to hygienic and standardized sanitation facilities nationwide. The policy focuses on improving public health, enhancing sanitation systems, and making facilities inclusive for women, children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and marginalized groups.
Authorities plan to introduce sustainable management and financing models to ensure long-term maintenance of public toilet infrastructure. The policy further mandates awareness campaigns led by key ministries, including education, health, and information, to promote proper hygiene practices among students.
In a bid to strengthen sanitation standards, all development projects involving infrastructure must include separate toilet facilities for women, while the installation of septic tanks has been made compulsory. Strict measures have also been outlined to prevent the discharge of waste into rivers, canals, wetlands, and other water bodies.
Additionally, the government has directed relevant departments to establish gender-segregated public toilets along highways and major roads, improving convenience for travelers. Ministries have been instructed to prepare time-bound action plans to ensure effective implementation of the policy.
Impact:
The dual decision is expected to ease public movement during Eid while laying the foundation for improved sanitation and public health outcomes in Bangladesh.
Future outlook:
Effective implementation and sustained funding will be critical in determining the long-term success of the policy, especially in maintaining infrastructure standards.
