Rizwana calls for united effort to implement ‘Zero Soil’

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has called for unified efforts among the City Corporation, Forest Department, and citizens to implement the ‘Zero Soil’ programme aimed at reducing dust pollution in Dhaka.

Speaking at the inauguration of a tree-planting event jointly organized by the Forest Department and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) at Harar Bari ground in Purbachal New Town on Thursday, Hasan emphasized the importance of covering exposed soil, planting rooftop gardens, and greening vacant spaces to protect the environment.

She stated, “By September, we aim to set a precedent in the DNCC area through the ‘Zero Soil’ initiative. Everyone should plant as many trees as possible and cover bare soil with grass or ivy. Forest ecosystems cannot be artificially created; they develop naturally and must be preserved. A coordinated, eco-friendly action plan is essential.”

DNCC officials revealed plans to green 120 kilometers of medians and 108 kilometers of canal banks in the near future. Additionally, joint afforestation efforts with RAJUK will take place in Uttara and Purbachal, involving local communities and volunteer groups.

The event, chaired by DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz, was attended by Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Engineer Md. Riyazul Islam, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (RAJUK); and Md. Amir Hossain Chowdhury, Chief Conservator of Forests.

The programme concluded with the official launch of the ‘Zero Soil’ initiative, marked by grass planting along the road adjacent to Banani Cemetery by the advisor.