PM orders restoration of Dhaka's waterways, end to river pollution

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has issued strict directives to restore the waterways around the capital and prevent pollution of the rivers. He also instructed relevant authorities to improve Dhaka's drainage system and maintain the navigability and water flow of the rivers.

He gave these directives while chairing an important meeting on the restoration of waterways around Dhaka at the Cabinet Division's special conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat on Sunday (August 2).

After the meeting, Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary Shahadat Swadhin briefed journalists about the decisions.

Shahadat Swadhin said the meeting decided to restore the waterways around the capital. It was also decided to consider proposals from interested private companies and allow them to operate water buses on the waterways.

He further said the Prime Minister directed the relevant authorities to prevent pollution of Dhaka's rivers, improve the drainage system, and maintain the navigability and water flow. He also instructed planting various tree species along the walkways built beside the rivers to ensure environmental protection and enhance the beauty of the riverbanks.

Emphasising environmental protection and the aesthetics of the city, the Prime Minister laid special emphasis on planting adequate trees alongside the riverfront walkways.

The meeting was attended by Road Transport and Bridges, Railways and Shipping Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam; State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam; Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Md Shafiqul Islam Khan; Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Md Abdus Salam; Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman Rumon; and senior officials from relevant ministries and agencies.