Dhaka no longer seems liveable: Fakhrul

Local Government Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said Dhaka is becoming increasingly unliveable due to worsening pollution, poor urban management and the deterioration of public institutions.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the "Dokkhiner Janala" initiative organised by Dhaka South City Corporation today (6 June), he said he is considering leaving the capital and settling elsewhere in the country.

"Nowadays, I myself feel that I will not continue living in Dhaka city; I will move to another city in the country. The reason is that it no longer seems liveable," said Fakhrul, who is also the BNP secretary general.

Highlighting environmental and public health concerns, he said residents are exposed to polluted air as soon as they leave their homes, while many government hospitals remain overcrowded and difficult to access.

"Every institution is heading towards decline. If we cannot overcome this situation and rebuild our institutions, then all the dreams we talk about will remain just dreams. Will we truly be able to enjoy fresh air?" he asked.

Fakhrul stressed the need for a broader movement to ensure clean air, reduce pollution and build more liveable cities for future generations.

He said policymakers, city managers and those responsible for implementing development plans must be held accountable.

"Project after project worth thousands of crores of taka is being implemented for Dhaka city. But it is necessary to evaluate how much ordinary people and city residents are actually benefiting," he said.

Referring to the deteriorating condition of Dhaka's rivers, Fakhrul recalled that he and his friends frequently travelled by boat on the Buriganga during their college years.

"Now it is difficult even to go near the river; it is so polluted and foul-smelling. In my view, many of Dhaka's problems are rooted in the condition of the Buriganga," he said.

He warned that the Shitalakshya River is also heading towards a similar state of degradation and called for proper planning, sustainable implementation and structural reforms to improve urban governance.

Addressing water quality concerns, Fakhrul said, "The condition of Dhaka's water supply is extremely alarming. A large portion of the water is not fit for consumption.

"Another major concern is that groundwater levels are falling drastically, creating a serious threat for the city."

He urged authorities to take effective measures to restore the rivers around Dhaka, including the Buriganga and Turag.

"So many projects are undertaken, yet no truly effective initiative emerges to free the Buriganga from pollution. I will try to discuss whether we can restore the Buriganga and improve the condition of the Turag as well," he added.