Dhaka: BNP nominee from Dhaka-5 constituency (Jatrabari and Demra) Md. Nabi Ullah has pledged to resolve infrastructural crises, address water logging, and ensure civic amenities if elected in the upcoming Jatiya Sangsad polls slated for February 12. “I will work, in consultation with local residents, to address all problems including gas and water shortages, environmental pollution, traffic congestion, drugs, and the menace of juvenile gangs,” he said in an exclusive interview with BSS ahead of the polls here recently.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Md. Nabi Ullah criticized the lack of significant government institutions in the constituency, highlighting the absence of adequate hospitals, public universities, sports grounds, and children’s parks. He emphasized that even with minimal rainfall, the area suffers from water logging and no permanent solution has been implemented since independence. He pledged to collaborate with local residents to resolve these issues according to their needs.
Md. Nabi Ullah pointed out the challenges posed by the lack of entry and exit provisions in the flyover areas of Jatrabari and surrounding localities for residents of Demra, Matuail, and Jatrabari. He noted the absence of beautification efforts in what is known as the eastern gateway to the capital, contrasting it with other capitals worldwide that have attractive entrances.
He also addressed the emerging gas crisis in the area, stating that residents are not receiving gas and water properly. He has met with the appropriate authorities to address this crisis and expressed hope that these issues will be resolved if the BNP comes to power.
Environmental pollution is another major problem, with Jatrabari turning into a garbage city due to waste dumping. Md. Nabi Ullah proposed an integrated plan for waste management, environmental protection, and traffic congestion mitigation. The constituency also faces severe traffic congestion, with vehicles from six divisions using the route. Md. Nabi Ullah promised to eradicate terrorism, drugs, and snatching if elected.
Due to the lack of recreational facilities, many adolescents are involved in crimes. Md. Nabi Ullah plans to build playgrounds, recreational centers, educational institutions, and government establishments to address this issue.
Regarding the election code of conduct, Md. Nabi Ullah stated that his team is cautious and follows the Election Commission’s directives strictly to avoid controversies. On the topic of the July Charter referendum, he confirmed that the party supports a “Yes” vote and his team is working accordingly.
Md. Nabi Ullah expressed hopes for a fair election after 17 years of non-participatory elections. He believes the interim government will ensure a level playing field and a surprise for the world.
According to Election Commission sources, the total number of voters in the Dhaka-5 constituency is 419,996, comprising 214,594 male voters, 205,397 female voters, and 5 third-gender voters. Of these, 4,541 voters have registered for postal voting, and the constituency has 150 polling centers.
Md. Nabi Ullah is contesting against various candidates including Tofazzal Hossain Mostafa of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, Mir Abdus Sabur of the Jatiya Party, and others representing different political parties and symbols.