STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) administrator Md Abdus Salam yesterday reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Dhaka into a clean and green city.

He, however, emphasised that the vision of a “Clean City, Green City” can only be achieved through the collective effort and awareness of citizens.

Salam made these remarks while inaugurating a beautification project along the road median and footpaths from Gulistan Zero Point to Hotel InterContinental. The event was held at the Kakrail Mosque intersection.

The project marks the beginning of a broader urban improvement initiative.

As part of the prime minister’s vision, the road is being developed into an “ideal and model road”. In the first phase, 54 aesthetically designed flower pots of various shapes have been installed along the median and footpaths. These will be later filled with vibrantly coloured flowering plants.

The DSCC plans to complete the current project within one month. The next phase will focus on similar beautification efforts in the Dhanmondi residential area, particularly its lakes. Over time, the initiative will be expanded across the entire city.

Addressing issues such as encroachment of footpaths and damage to greenery, Salam said, “It is not possible for the city corporation or police to guard everything at all times. If we plant trees and others destroy them, the effort will not succeed.”

He stressed that maintaining this beautification remains a public responsibility and urged citizens to avoid littering outside designated bins and to act responsibly in protecting the environment.

He called on everyone to plant at least one tree, highlighting that meaningful change begins at the grassroots level.

Senior DSCC officials were present at the event.