-Mamun Kabir
The recent initiative to construct an elevated expressway in Hatirjheel and its ramp in Panthakunja Park in Dhaka exemplifies blatant disregard for citizens’ rights and environmental protection. The implementation of this project threatens the destruction of Hatirjheel and Panthakunja Park. Such development projects are not only contrary to the concept of environmentally friendly urban development but also pose a significant threat to the sustainable future of Dhaka city.
Hatirjheel is one of Dhaka’s most important water reservoirs and a recreational area for city residents. It not only adds aesthetic beauty but also plays a vital role in maintaining the environmental balance of Dhaka. Hatirjheel aids in mitigating waterlogging, improving sewage management, recharging groundwater, and controlling air pollution. It serves as a natural sanctuary for people from all walks of life—elite, middle class, and lower-income groups alike.
However, the construction of the elevated expressway infrastructure has placed the environment of Hatirjheel under severe threat. Already, around 41 pillars have been constructed, which is disrupting the drainage system and natural equilibrium of the area. If the project is completed, it will significantly increase the risk of waterlogging and environmental pollution in vast areas. Moreover, inadequate sewage management resulting from this project could severely affect public health. The disregard of the court’s directives to protect Hatirjheel further demonstrates the lack of accountability in urban planning.
Panthakunja Park, on the other hand, is the only green space for residents in the Panthapath, Kawran Bazar, Kathalbagan, and Hatirpool areas of Dhaka. This park is crucial for the mental and physical well-being of the locals. However, nearly 2,000 trees have already been felled for the construction of the elevated expressway ramp. This devastation has not only disrupted the ecological balance but also exacerbated the air pollution in the area. The destruction of this park has deprived residents of their natural refuge, negatively impacting their mental health.
The youth-led tree conservation movement in Panthakunja Park has set a new example in the fight to protect the environment. Their tireless efforts prove how public awareness, and resistance can play a significant role in environmental preservation. We highly commend this initiative, which will remain a crucial example in the broader environmental conservation movement.
The construction of the elevated expressway is bound to have a profound adverse impact on both the environment and the lives of Dhaka’s residents. Some potential consequences of the destruction of Hatirjheel and Panthakunja Park include:
Potential Risk of Waterlogging: Disruption of Hatirjheel’s drainage system will escalate waterlogging in central Dhaka, causing significant hardships in daily life and diminishing the city’s overall livability.
Damage to Natural Balance: Hatirjheel and Panthakunja Park play vital roles in maintaining ecological balance. The project threatens to destroy aquatic biodiversity and natural beauty.
Worsening Air Pollution: The removal of trees from Panthakunja Park has intensified air pollution in the area, posing serious health risks for residents.
Public Health Crisis: Poor sewage management will lead to increased prevalence of diseases such as dengue, malaria, and waterborne illnesses.
Mental Health Impact: The loss of green spaces and open areas negatively impacts the mental well-being of citizens, particularly in an already congested urban environment.
Environmentalists and civil society believe the government needs following acts urgently to preserve Hatirjheel and Panthakunja Park.
Cancellation of the Elevated Expressway Project: The ongoing initiative to destroy Hatirjheel’s environment must be immediately halted, and the project must be canceled.
Restoration of Panthakunja Park: Construction of the ramp that is destroying Panthakunja Park must be stopped immediately, and the park must be restored to its original state.
Free Natural Water Bodies from Pollution and Encroachment: All rivers, canals, and natural reservoirs, including Hatirjheel, must be freed from pollution and encroachment. Similarly, all parks and green spaces, including Panthakunja Park, must be protected and developed.
Act Against Those Responsible: Individuals and entities responsible for these environmentally destructive projects must be identified and held accountable.
Adopt Sustainable Urban Development Plans: Environmentally friendly urban development plans must be prioritized and implemented, ensuring environmental and citizen rights are respected in all development projects.
Hatirjheel and Panthakunja Park are not merely symbols of aesthetic beauty but integral parts of Dhaka’s environment, public health, and quality of life. The cancellation of the elevated expressway project and the preservation of these areas are crucial for the sustainable future of Dhaka. We expect the government and relevant authorities to take responsible actions to protect these vital areas.
We believe that the movement to preserve Hatirjheel and Panthakunja Park will not only safeguard the environment of Dhaka but also serve as a milestone in the environmental conservation movement across the country.
Author: Mamun Kabir is the Manager, Communications and Advocacy, Waterkeepers Bangladesh