Dhaka, Aug 06 (V7N) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the authorities to swiftly prepare a comprehensive action plan to prevent pollution in the rivers surrounding the capital, including the Buriganga, and ensure its effective implementation.
The directive came during a meeting titled "Water and Environmental Development of the Buriganga River" held at the Cabinet Division conference room at the Secretariat on Thursday (August 6).
Addressing the meeting, the Prime Minister said river pollution has reached a critical stage and warned that failure to act immediately would leave future generations to bear the consequences.
He stressed that there is no room for negligence in tackling pollution and instructed the relevant authorities not only to formulate a comprehensive action plan but also to ensure its effective execution.
The meeting emphasized coordinated efforts among the Department of Environment, Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), Dhaka WASA, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA), RAJUK, Dhaka North and South City Corporations, district administrations and other relevant agencies.
The Prime Minister also directed officials to involve environmental organizations, voluntary groups, educational institutions and local communities in the river conservation initiative.
Officials informed the meeting that an inter-agency coordination committee would be formed under the supervision of the Prime Minister's Office to oversee the implementation of the action plan.
Discussions focused on ensuring the effective operation of Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) in industrial establishments, improving canal and drainage systems, conducting regular enforcement drives against polluters, strengthening the implementation of existing environmental laws and enhancing coordination among government agencies.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of raising public awareness and encouraging greater citizen participation in protecting the country's rivers and environment.
END/SMA/AJ
