ZCZC
BSS-05
PM-WASA-PROJECT-2-DHAKA
The prime minister reiterated that the box culverts built illegally in the
city destroying the water drainage system and canals would be demolished if
her government comes to power next time.
The water channels would be restored and elevated roads would be
constructed there for vehicular movement.
Multi-storey housing facilities would be extended to Dhaka’s suburban areas
to reduce pressure on the capital, she said.
Sheikh Hasina appreciated the WASA employees for their sincere services to
make the public utility body as an effective one during the tenure of her
government.
However, she urged them to remain alert about those people who create
unwarranted trouble in implementing a development project.
Sheikh Hasina said Dhaka WASA was beset with irregularities for a long
time.
Awami League government during its 1996-2001 tenure had taken many projects
to free it from those irregularities, she said.
But, the development projects of Dhaka WASA failed to continue its pace
after change of the government in 2001. Success in implementation of
development projects is now visible due to continuation of the government in
2014, she said.
Laying importance on regular dredging of the rivers and canals, the prime
minister said surrounding rivers are the main sources of water for sewerage
plants of Dhaka City.
So, the government has already undertaken projects for removing the sludge
from bottom of the rivers, she said.
Sheikh Hasina said the water flow of the Jamuna River is being joined with
the rivers surrounding Dhaka to increase their tides in lean period.
Dhaka WASA would continue its efforts to protect the existing canals, she
hoped.
Pointing out the steps taken by her government to ensure production and
supply of water, the prime minister said development partners now consider
WASA a role model in South Asia in giving water services.
Sheikh Hasina urged the concerned officials to work sincerely to achieve
the SDG Goal No 6, which envisages a safe drinking water and sewerage system
by 2030.
The government has also prepared ‘Bangladesh Delta Plan- 2100’, a 100-year
plan to ensure long-term integrated water management, she said.
Sheikh Hasina said the Dasherkandi Sewerage Plant would help giving modern
sewerage services to about five million people living in Hatirjeel, Gulshan,
Banani, Baridhara, Basundhara, Sangsad Bhaban and adjacent areas.
BSS/AKH/AKM 1328hrs