Elevated Expressway: Activists demand probe commission over law violations, mismanagement, environmental destruction
The activists warned that if the construction of the FDC-Palashi link road is not halted, it will worsen traffic congestion across key intersections
Environmental activists from the Bangladesh Tree Protection Movement have requested the chief adviser and advisory council to halt the construction of a connecting road from FDC to Palashi, part of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway project.
In a letter sent to the chief adviser, they called for establishing an independent investigation commission to probe alleged violations of state laws, mismanagement, environmental destruction, public suffering, and corruption linked to the project.
Signed by 15 individuals — including activists, urban planners, lawyers, and writers — led by movement coordinator Amirul Rajib, the letter was sent via both registered post and email to relevant ministries and authorities.
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According to the letter, construction activities have already caused the destruction of over 2,000 trees from 45 species in Panthakunja — the only major green space in the area — and led to the filling of parts of the Hatirjheel reservoir, which serves as a crucial drainage route for densely populated areas like Kathalbagan, Central Road, and Dilu Road.
The activists warned that if the construction of the FDC-Palashi link road is not halted, it will worsen traffic congestion across key intersections, including SAARC Fountain, Bangla Motor, Kataban, Elephant Road, Nilkhet, and Palashi.
They also argued that the future transport and environmental stability of Dhaka University and BUET will be significantly affected.
The letter further stated that the elevated expressway work is proceeding without proper environmental clearance and in defiance of court rulings.
