PM Unveils 12-Point Plan for Clean, Green Dhaka

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday announced a 12-point plan aimed at transforming Dhaka into a cleaner, greener and more sustainable city.

Speaking in parliament, he said a series of coordinated measures are being implemented through the Dhaka North and Dhaka South City Corporations under the Local Government Division.

The plan prioritises public awareness and citizen engagement, with regular campaigns, intensified cleanliness drives and expanded mosquito control programmes across the capital.

Efforts are also underway to modernise waste management. Secondary transfer stations are being upgraded with environmentally friendly features such as landscaping and greening. A major initiative has been taken to transform the Matuail landfill into an integrated waste-to-energy facility based on a circular economy model with foreign investment.

Urban greening is another key focus. Tree plantation programmes are being carried out along road medians, traffic islands and open spaces. Under Dhaka North City Corporation, Miyawaki-style urban forests are being developed, with a target to plant 500,000 trees over the next five years. Additional plantation is planned under metro rail corridors and elevated expressways.

To combat air pollution, the government is working to introduce modern public transport, including 250 electric buses. Authorities are also conducting regular enforcement drives against vehicles emitting black smoke, construction-related pollution and other sources of air contamination.

llegal brick kilns around Dhaka are being shut down, while Savar has been declared a degraded airshed zone, with restrictions on polluting activities such as brick burning and open waste disposal.

Measures have also been taken to reduce water pollution. Industries are now required to install effluent treatment plants (ETPs), with 248 facilities already equipped and monitored through real-time systems. Authorities have identified major pollution sources in key rivers, including the Buriganga, Shitalakkhya, Balu and Turag, as well as several canals across the city.

In addition, the Forest Department is working with various agencies to expand greenery in urban areas, including roadsides, canal banks and open spaces. Tens of thousands of saplings have already been planted under these initiatives.

The Prime Minister expressed hope that the combined efforts will gradually transform Dhaka into a cleaner and greener city.