Environment, forest and climate change and water resources adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan at an event in Dhaka on Saturday said that protection of ponds and water bodies was a collective national responsibility.
She made the remark while inaugurating a project at Doripara Government Primary School ground at Keraniganj.
The adviser inaugurated the restoration, development and environmental conservation of 44 state-owned ponds and water bodies in the capital and its adjoining areas.
Funded by the Climate Change Trust Fund, the project is being implemented by the Dhaka district administration.
This initiative is a step toward the restoration, conservation and for maintaining ecological balance across the key water bodies in the capital and on its outskirts.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rizwana stated, 鈥楥onserving natural water bodies is essential for tackling the impacts of climate change and many ponds in Dhaka face threats from encroachment, filling and pollution.鈥�
She also urged the Dhaka district administration to prepare a comprehensive list of remaining water bodies and to undertake restoration in phases. 鈥楽uch efforts must continue to ensure a sustainable environment for future generations.鈥�
The adviser also emphasised that the project would be implemented with participation from fishermen community, local residents and relevant stakeholders for ensuring both environmental protection and socio-economic benefits for local communities.
On the issue of banned polythene, she noted that polythene pollution posed a big threat to the environment and public health. 鈥楧ue to government vigilance and growing public awareness, supermarkets have significantly reduced the use of polythene shopping bags.鈥�
The adviser instructed officials to begin work promptly and expressed hope that upon completion, the project would restore the natural capacity of Dhaka鈥檚 water bodies and significantly contribute to building a climate-resilient urban system.
Environment, forest and climate change secretary Farhina Ahmed, divisional commissioner Sharaf Uddin Ahmad Chowdhury, deputy commissioner of Dhaka Tanvir Ahmed, superintendent of police Md Anisuzzaman and upazila nirbahi officer of Keraniganj Rinath Fauzia were present at the function.
According to government records, Dhaka district and metropolitan area together have 113 such ponds, of which 44 have been selected for restoration in the first phase.
The project includes demarcation of boundaries, eviction of illegal occupants, installation of boundary pillars, re-excavation, embankment protection, pollution control, water replacement, construction of paved pontoons, walkways, benches and tree plantation.
These interventions will help reduce water logging, enhance rainwater retention, support fisheries and agriculture, improve buffer zones and create environment friendly recreational spaces for the city residents.