Photo : Messenger
Rangpur City Corporation(RCC) has initiated a rigorous cleaning operation to salvage the iconic Shyamasundari Canal, boasting a heritage spanning 133 years.
The initiative saw 1,000 volunteers from the nationwide volunteer organization BD Clean converging upon the canal's locality.
Working tirelessly throughout the day, these volunteers undertook the Herculean task of cleansing a 5-kilometer stretch of the canal, marking a significant step towards restoring its former glory.
The cleaning program was inaugurated by City Mayor Mostafizar Rahman Mostafa at the city's check post on Saturday morning. Earlier, apart from City Mayor, Divisional Commissioner Zakir Hossain, Range DIG Moha Abdul Baten, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Moniruzzaman and other senior administration officials were present at the stadium.
BD Clean, renowned for its environmental endeavors, mobilized its forces to tackle the unique challenges posed by Shyamasundari Canal's degradation. Volunteers encountered an array of pollutants ranging from plastic bottles to organic waste, illustrating the dire need for intervention in this ecological crisis.
Amidst the arduous cleanup efforts, volunteers expressed their determination to restore Shyamasundari to its former splendor, with Naima Sultana Shifa from BD Clean Gaibandha reaffirming their commitment to creating a cleaner, more livable Rangpur.
As the cleanup progressed, Masud Parvez, deputy chief coordinator of BD Clean, outlined the meticulous planning involved in coordinating the operation, ensuring efficient utilization of resources and manpower.
Providing essential support to the cleanup initiative, Rangpur City Corporation's waste officer Mizanur Rahman Mizu highlighted the provision of necessary equipment and medical aid to facilitate the cleanup efforts.
Dr. Kamruzzaman Ibn Tajjanan, chief physician of Rangpur City Corporation Health Department, led medical teams tasked with providing onsite assistance to volunteers, underscoring the commitment to ensuring their well-being amidst the rigorous cleanup activities.
Looking ahead, City Mayor Mostafizar Rahman Mostafa underscored the importance of citizen engagement in maintaining the cleanliness of Shyamasundari Canal, signaling a shift towards stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to preserve the canal's integrity.
With 5 kilometers of the canal successfully cleaned, attention now turns to the remaining 11 kilometers, with Mayor Mostafa affirming his commitment to mobilizing resources and engaging stakeholders to realize the project's completion.
Messenger/Fameema