Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has stressed the need for coordinated efforts among all relevant agencies to transform Dhaka into a clean and liveable city. The call came during a meeting held in the capital on Saturday (14 November), where discussions focused on improving waste management and keeping roads and public spaces clean.

Restoration of water bodies

The government has unveiled a plan to reclaim 56 canals and 62 ponds across the capital. The initiative aims to ease waterlogging, improve drainage systems, and restore the city's ecological balance. The restored water bodies are expected to enhance the city's water retention capacity and play a vital role in the urban ecosystem.

Need for a unified approach

During the meeting, the Prime Minister made it clear that no single agency alone can achieve the desired results in cleanliness; a joint and coordinated effort from all public and private entities is essential. Directives were issued to implement a unified action plan covering waste management, street cleaning, and maintenance of water bodies. Emphasis was also placed on raising public awareness so that the cleanliness drive evolves into a sustainable movement.

Urban development priority

Analysts note that environmental degradation has become a major challenge amid Dhaka's growing population and rapid urbanisation. Encroachment and pollution of canals and ponds have led to severe waterlogging every monsoon, disrupting the lives of city residents. In this context, the prioritisation of water body restoration and cleanliness initiatives is being viewed as a timely step.

Next steps

Sources indicate that discussions were held regarding the formation of a monitoring committee to oversee the implementation of decisions taken at the meeting. Relevant ministries and agencies have been instructed to complete their tasks within specified deadlines. In the coming days, cleanliness drives are expected to be intensified across various areas of the capital, and a list of restored canals and ponds will be published.