DSCC removes 57,000 tonnes of waste from canals in a month

After taking over the responsibility of Dhaka's drains and canals, Dhaka South City Corporation has removed about 57,000 tonnes of waste from them within a month.

Mayor Taposh disclosed the details while inspecting the ongoing waste removal operation in the capital's Shyampur canal area on Wednesday.

He said that waste was removed from three canals and two box culverts within the territory of Dhaka South.

The oversight of 26 Dhaka canals and culverts was transferred to the two Dhaka city corporations from Dhaka Wasa on 31 December.

 "We have been in charge for a month and we have removed 57,000 metric tonnes of waste. In the next two months, the figure will exceed two lakh metric tonnes," said the mayor.

Highlighting the continuation of the cleaning activities with DSCC's funds, the mayor hoped to restore cleanliness and hygiene to the environment.

He also mentioned that the cleaning will be completed prior to the next monsoon season and occupied lands adjacent to the canals will be freed to make arrangements for cycling and walking.

The mayor said that Dhaka South also requested the Water Development Board to hand over some of their canals.  

"The Water Development Board has some installations adjacent to the embankment, where there is a drainage system with a switch gate. We are working to get them handed over to us," he said.

Noting that they are working to free both sides of the canal, the mayor said, "We have already vacated the land along the Manda canal.

According to the CS survey and map regarding the width of the canal, we will release the maximum land."

The mayor further said, "Several committees are working to ensure proper management of the industrial waste.

We have also asked the Department of Environment to ensure stricter enforcement of laws."