Local Government, Rural Development (LGRD) and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that the government and relevant ministries will extend full support to transform Dhaka into a more dynamic, attractive, livable and scenic city.
He made the remarks while speaking at a programme titled ‘Dokkhiner Janala’ held in Bijoynagar, Dhaka, organized by Dhaka South City Corporation.
The minister said efforts are underway to improve urban living conditions and ensure better city management, emphasizing the need for proper planning, accountability and institutional reform in Dhaka’s development process.
Fakhrul noted that city corporations, as autonomous local government bodies, must act with greater responsibility and patriotism while implementing development projects. He also said that public awareness alone is not enough to solve Dhaka’s long-standing urban problems.
Highlighting past and present urban conditions, he recalled that Dhaka’s rivers such as the Buriganga once supported boat travel during his student life, but are now heavily polluted. He stressed the urgent need to protect and restore these rivers.
The minister further pointed out that despite significant investment in drainage and infrastructure projects, residents are still not receiving expected services. He also warned that declining groundwater levels pose a serious environmental threat to the capital.
The event was chaired by Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam. Experts including Dhaka WASA Managing Director Aminul Islam, environmental specialist Ainun Nishat, zoology professor Kabirul Bashar, and urban planner Adil Muhammad Khan also participated in the discussion.
