A laudable initiative

A canal dug over a century to keep Rangpur town clean and disease-free is now a breeding ground for germs. Photo: Star

Natun Dhara, a local socio-cultural organisation, organised the rally.

The canal, dug in 1890 at the initiative of the then Zamindar of Dimla Raja Jonaki Ballav to drain out stagnant and polluted water from the town, is now virtually derelict and filled with garbage. Sayings go that he had taken the initiative as diseases like malaria, cholera, typhoid, and skin infection became almost endemic in the small town as rainwater remained stagnant for long creating dirt and filth.

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After excavation of the nine-mile canal through the town, the diseases tapered off. The canal falls into the Tepa river.

But the derelict canal is now a breeding ground for germs, mosquitoes and flies, spreading diseases and polluting the environment.

The original canal was 30 to 35 feet in breadth. But in several areas, it has been encroached by land grabbers, choking the outlet.

After the rally, a memorandum will also be handed over to the Deputy Commissioner for removal of encroachments.

The rally will be followed by mass songs to create awareness among the people.

Natun Dhara has also planned pisciculture in the canal and tree plantation on its banks, sources said.

They said people of all strata of life and all political parties and socio-cultural bodies have extended support to their initiative.