Editorial
Hatirjheel gets polluted
Authorities must act quickly
IT is unfortunate and regrettable but nevertheless a reality that the Hatirjheel project, which was considered a classic example of environmental restoration when completed nearly ten months ago, may be reverting to character. A picture carried in this paper yesterday depicts a dismal image of a beautiful area because of the pollution of the lake.
The project per se was not only to resuscitate the area that had all but become a wasteland but also to solve the drainage problem of the city. The project although inaugurated hastily was a whiff of fresh air to which the people flocked in the evenings and on holidays, because of the fresh ambience of the area. But it is now losing its charm.
The authorities must act quickly to prevent the degradation of the twin lakes and indeed the surrounding area. Dumping of solid wastes and outflow of sewages into the lake have created environmental problems for the residents of the area.
We understand that this is all due to the poor sewage and waste management in the capital, and the problem is primarily structural as well as technical. But whatever may be the reason for the pollution, both WASA and Rajuk, whose project it is, must take all necessary measures immediately with the help of the BUET, who were associated with the planning and execution of the work, to arrest the situation. Otherwise, instead of being the largest surface freshwater body in the Capital it will very quickly become the largest polluted water body of the city.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments