Dhanmondi Lake will not be allowed to turn into a commercial zone under any circumstances, said Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Md Abdus Salam yesterday.
Emphasising the need to preserve its natural environment, he said, “Dhanmondi Lake is not a commercial area. There is a severe shortage of breathing spaces in Dhaka city. We want to preserve this lake in its original natural form.”
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after visiting the lake.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the growing number of restaurants and commercial establishments around the lake, Salam said it now appears that the entire area has been taken over by restaurants, which is unacceptable.
“Our primary goal is to preserve nature here. We will soon restore a beautiful and healthy environment,” he said.
Highlighting measures taken for maintenance of the lake, he said they will form a monitoring committee within the next week, comprising local residents and city corporation officials.
Future development and maintenance will be based on the committee’s recommendations, he added.
Salam stressed that public participation is essential for protecting the lake.
“Long-term solutions cannot be achieved by the city corporation or police alone. We want local residents to act as guardians of the lake,” he said.
He also instructed that the cultural heritage of Rabindra Sarobar must be preserved without harming the natural environment.
Responding to a question, he said Dhanmondi Lake can regain its beauty if residents remain aware and cooperative.