RAJSHAHI, June 13, (V7N) – Residents of the Uttar Chakpara area in Rajshahi metropolis are suffering immensely due to a poorly constructed drain that stands two to three feet higher than the road. Built in 2022, the drain has both ends closed, making it impossible to drain water. Instead of relieving waterlogging, the structure has become a useless obstacle, causing water to accumulate year-round, turning roads muddy after light rain, and disrupting movement of rickshaws, vans, and pedestrians. Locals claim their objections during construction were ignored.
Rajshahi City Corporation Administrator Mahfuzur Rahman Riton said he has learned about the matter and officials are looking into it. He added that he may visit the site personally, and after discussions, a committee will evaluate the issue and take necessary decisions. Local resident Rafiqul Islam said the drain has increased their problems rather than improving the road. Another resident, Arif Hossain, noted that mosquito infestation has become severe due to stagnant water. RUET Professor Dr. Abdul Wakil emphasized that unplanned projects create public suffering and that coordination between development authorities must be increased.
Meanwhile, Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu stated at a seminar in Rajshahi that 1,000 people have become millionaires in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj over the last 20 years through drug dealing. He issued strict orders to police to immediately arrest these drug dealers and bring them under the law. He made these remarks while delivering a keynote address at a seminar titled 'Protection of Women and Children from Violence: Challenges and Remedies' at Nanking Darbar Hall. The seminar was organized by the Rajshahi Range DIG Office.
In other news, BIWTA Member Md. Sajedur Rahman visited Sultanganj Port in Godagari Upazila and stated that all conditions for starting port operations have been met, including construction of a new office. He said he would recommend to NBR that the port be opened as soon as possible. Stone importer Aminul Islam noted that traders have developed infrastructure at their own initiative and cargo ships are ready, but products are stuck, causing financial losses. The Sultanganj-Maya port route (India) is only 18 km long and could significantly reduce import costs if opened.
Lastly, as part of the government's election pledge to plant 25 crore trees in five years, Rajshahi City Corporation has undertaken a program to plant 2.5 lakh trees across the city. In the first phase, approximately 53,000 trees of various species — flowering, fruit, forest, and medicinal — are being planted. RCC Administrator Mahfuzur Rahman Riton urged city residents to plant at least one tree each to make Rajshahi greener, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly. The program was held at Kashiadanga Mor, attended by BNP leaders and various organization representatives.
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