Siddhirganj Lake Project Still Incomplete After 2021 Deadline

Located in Narayanganj, Siddhirganj has experienced rapid population growth, driven largely by the industrial boom, particularly the Adamji EPZ, which employs nearly 100,000 workers. However, this industrial development has left little space for green areas or recreational spaces. In response, the Narayanganj City Corporation launched the Siddhirganj Lake project, aiming to improve the quality of life by providing a natural haven for residents.

The project officially commenced during the 2018-19 fiscal year, involving the re-excavation of the lake and the development of surrounding infrastructure, including roads, drains, walkways, and landscaping. Former Mayor Dr. Selina Hayat inaugurated the project in two phases on February 11 and May 3, 2019.

The beautification of the five-and-a-half-kilometer stretch from Golakata Bridge in Ward No. 3 to Bhangar Bridge in Ward No. 8 was projected to cost Tk 63.48 crore, while the construction of six bridges was budgeted at Tk 35.84 crore. The project, funded by JICA, was originally set to finish within a year.

However, unforeseen delays—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and internal issues—extended the deadline to December 2021. Now, in 2025, the project is still incomplete, with only 3.8 kilometers of the lake's development finished.

The full scope of the project includes the excavation of the lake, the construction of roads, drains, and bridges, and the addition of amenities such as gardens, boating piers, toilets, fountains, street lights, and benches.

Despite the setbacks, the area has grown into a popular gathering spot for locals. Salam, a regular visitor, expressed frustration: "After the project was approved, we haven't seen any progress as promised. What should have been a year-long project has stretched into five years."

Jamal, another local resident, lamented, "The work on the lake is stuck halfway. If it were completed, it would have brought significant benefits to the community."

Engineer Azgar Hossain from the Narayanganj City Corporation confirmed that the project spans 5.2 kilometers, of which 3.8 kilometers are finished. He also revealed that JICA had unexpectedly halted funding, which significantly contributed to the delays. Hossain reassured the public, stating that the remaining work will be completed once new funding is secured.

As residents continue to await the full realization of the project, many are hopeful that it will eventually fulfill its promise of transforming the area into a much-needed green space.