‘Jotner Daak’: A plea for protection and restoration of Suhrawardy Udyan’s ecosystem

Suhrawardy Udyan, a vital green and historical hub in Dhaka, has been at the centre of a transformative campaign, titled "Call for Care" or "Jotner Daak", aiming to combine ecological preservation with social responsibility. 

The initiative, which was inaugurated on 12 January, concludes today (14 January) with a blanket distribution event for homeless individuals, who will receive blankets in exchange for plastic waste collected from the park, according to a press release.

The campaign showcased Suhrawardy Udyan's historical role in shaping Bangladesh's identity, as it was an integral part of the 1952 Language Movement, the 1971 Liberation War, and most recently, the 2024 student-led mass uprising. 

Amidst this legacy, the park's ecosystem, once home to herons, doels, and butterflies, is under threat due to illegal shops, vehicle encroachments, and poor management, read the release.

While Suhrawardy Udyan stands as a symbol of Bangladesh's liberation history, it has increasingly become a hotspot for crime. Incidents such as gang rapes, assaults, murders, extortion, and robberies highlight the park's declining safety. High-profile cases involving Bangladesh Chhatra League members, unregulated vendors, and unchecked illegal activities paint a grim picture.

The park's lack of surveillance, poor maintenance, and unchecked access create an environment for these crimes.

The campaign as a way to call for action showcased Shahidul Alam's "Crossfire", Parvez Ahmed Roni's "Border That Bleeds", and visual narratives of the 2024 uprising, along with an art camp titled "Rong Tulite Udyan" that engaged street children and artists, according to the release.

As part of the initiative, a cultural evening, titled "Shobdoghor", promises a vibrant lineup of performances. 

From 6pm to 10pm today, the event will feature popular artists and groups such as Somogeet, Tuhin Kanti Das, Farah Deeba, Muiz Mahfuz, Blindspot, Ong Ong, and others. 

The campaign also urged better management to address illegal activities and biodiversity loss. 

Proposals include banning unauthorised vehicles, increasing security, removing illegal shops, and enhancing public amenities.

Organisers emphasised that safeguarding the park is a shared responsibility to protect its unique ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Supported by Drik and the Public Works Department, the initiative invited citizens to unite for Suhrawardy Udyan's care, making the park a safe and inclusive haven for people and nature.