Dhaka: Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Mohammad Azaz today announced the construction of two bridges over the Norai River to bolster connectivity between Aftab Nagar and Banasree. "There is no alternative route for traveling from Aftab Nagar to Banasree other than the main road. Therefore, to improve convenience for the locals, at least two bridges will be constructed over the Narai River. These bridges will provide easy and direct connectivity between the two residential areas," he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Azaz made these remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony of the 'Waste Cleaning and Tree Plantation Programme' at Banasree Khalpar (Narai River) area in Banasree. The event was organized by the Samomona Parishad with overall support from the DNCC. He revealed that the proposed bridge will be named 'Narai Bridge', and highlighted that the canal currently known as Banasree Canal was once the flowing Norai River in the 1980s.
The administrator noted the river's past encroachment and conversion into a canal, while adding that the Water Development Board has re-listed it as 'Norai River' on DNCC's initiative. He further mentioned the potential future development of passenger transport services from Rampura to Sadarghat and Mirpur via waterways if the river is preserved.
Azaz also emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance waste management in areas like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara Lakes, with assistance from the World Bank. He expressed concern over extortion syndicates disrupting waste management and road encroachments in Dhaka, which complicate freeing the footpaths.
During the tree plantation program inauguration, Azaz underscored the importance of caring for planted trees to ensure a sustainable green environment. He called for citizen awareness to prevent garbage disposal in the canal, emphasizing the necessity of citizen participation in protecting the canal.
"The city is ours, we have to protect its beauty and wellbeing," he stressed. The program was presided over by Samomona Parishad, Banasree President Md. Shahbuddin Sikder, and included a cleanliness drive and tree plantation event with active involvement from local residents, volunteer groups, and the DNCC's cleanliness department.