The government on Saturday started restoration work on 44 ponds (Khas) and water bodies in Dhaka and its surrounding areas, with the aim of rebuilding and preserving important water bodies, protecting the natural drainage system and strengthening environmental balance.
Environmental consultant Syeda Rizwana Hasan inaugurated the climate resilience project funded by the Climate Change Trust Fund at the Daripara Government Primary School premises in Keraniganj, reports UNB.
Speaking at the event, the Advisor said that conservation of Khas ponds and water bodies is a national responsibility.
The adviser said there are 113 Khas ponds listed in government records in Dhaka district and metropolitan area, of which 44 have been selected for the first phase of restoration.
“Under the project, authorities will define boundaries, remove illegal encroachments, install boundary pillars, re-excavate ponds, build dams, purify polluted water, replace water when required and construct ghats, walkways, benches and green zones,” she said.
The measures are intended to help reduce waterlogging, store rainwater, support fishing and agriculture, create buffer zones and provide environmentally friendly recreational spaces for residents, she added.
Rizwana said protecting natural water bodies is crucial to address the impacts of climate change, especially as many ponds in Dhaka are affected by encroachments, dumping and pollution.
She called on the district administration to prepare a list of remaining water bodies and gradually promote their restoration to ensure a sustainable environment for future generations.
She added that the project will involve local communities, including fishing groups, to ensure environmental protection and socio-economic benefits.
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