Bangladesh PM orders coordinated drive to curb pollution in five Dhaka lakes

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday directed authorities to intensify coordinated efforts to curb pollution in lakes in Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara, Niketan, and Dhanmondi.

Rahman ordered agencies to stop sewage discharges, remove waste regularly, install sewage treatment plants (STPs), and accelerate restoration work. Officials said six primary and six secondary points have been identified where sewage and wastewater enter Gulshan Lake.

Authorities were also told to increase mechanical waste-removal boats from two to 10, remove accumulated sludge with floating excavators, and disconnect illegal sewer connections to stormwater drains and lakes.

A technical committee presented short-, medium-, and long-term recommendations, including building-level STPs, sewer network surveys, and improved drainage. Five special teams with 42 personnel have already been deployed to maintain lakes overseen by Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha.