Dhaka: Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has announced that the efforts to reclaim and depollute the Turag River are set to begin shortly. "A work plan on the Turag may be finalized by early June. In addition, the work plans of the remaining three rivers around Dhaka, Buriganga, Sitalakshya, and Balu, will also be finalized and taken forward," said Rizwana, who also serves as the Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana made these remarks while speaking at the 24th National Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Bangladesh Zoological Society held at the Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building of Dhaka University, where she was the chief guest. She emphasized the importance of finalizing the work plans for reclaiming and depolluting the rivers to ensure future administrations can continue the efforts. She stressed the necessity of reclaiming, depolluting, and dredging the rivers to save them.
Rizwana acknowledged the high expectations the public has from the government and reiterated the administration's commitment to transforming the country's rivers into clear blue waters. She highlighted the severe pollution levels in the rivers surrounding Dhaka, noting that there is no life in Turag, Balu, and Buriganga. In contrast, Shitalakshya still sustains some life.
She pointed out the need for improved waste management and the establishment of sewage treatment plants to halt pollution. Rizwana also mentioned that while Hatirjheel is popular among Dhaka's residents, the foul smell from the water makes it difficult to enjoy. She suggested that restoring water flow in rivers and canals is crucial for their biological survival.
Rizwana concluded by emphasizing the need to stop river encroachment and pollution, stating that enforcement activities will be intensified to address these issues.