Dhaka: Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Md Abdus Salam announced on Wednesday a long-term plan to enhance the living conditions of sanitation workers through the construction of 18 modern multi-storey residential buildings, replacing old and hazardous structures.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Abdus Salam emphasized that, alongside the construction of new buildings, DSCC is committed to providing alternative accommodations during the construction phase. Efforts will also be made to address gas and water supply issues and provide playgrounds and places of worship for both children and residents.
Abdus Salam conveyed these plans while speaking to sanitation workers and local residents at the Dayaganj sanitation workers’ housing colony in the capital. He highlighted the precarious state of the current buildings, stressing the need to relocate residents to safer areas before commencing demolition and reconstruction.
He urged cooperation from all stakeholders, stating, “The faster you cooperate, the sooner we will be able to complete the construction of modern housing facilities.” Plans for constructing the 18 multi-storey buildings in various colonies, such as Mironzilla, Dhalpur, Ganaktuli, Dayaganj, Wari, and Postogola, have already been sent to the ministry for approval, and work will commence once approval is granted.
Addressing utility bill concerns, Abdus Salam mentioned that sanitation workers could pay outstanding electricity bills in instalments, with DSCC taking steps to cover gas bills on their behalf. In preparation for Eid-ul-Azha, he directed sanitation workers to clear sacrificial waste within eight hours and announced special rewards for exemplary performance.
Abdus Salam also called for increased public awareness, emphasizing that maintaining a clean city requires responsible actions from citizens. “Waterlogging occurs mainly because people dump waste into drains and canals. City dwellers must become more responsible in this regard,” he stated.
MP for Dhaka-7 Hamidur Rahman Hamid, local public representatives, and senior DSCC officials attended the visit.