No one can build structures on banks of Karnaphuli
Says LGRD minister
No one will be allowed to build structures on the banks of river Karnaphuli, said Local Government, Rural Development & Cooperatives Minister Md Tazul Islam yesterday.
Terming port city the country's lifeline, he said the government is giving Chattogram its due importance. "There is no scope for negligence regarding the development of the city," he said.
The minister was addressing a views-exchange on addressing waterlogging problem in port city, enhancing navigability of the Karnaphuli and steps taken to free the river from illegal occupation and pollution as the chief guest.
The event was held at Chattogram Circuit House.
The minister said if the mills and industries are allowed to be set up on the river banks; it would pose a risk of polluting the river and illegal occupation.
Chattogram port and the country's economy are tied together and both are connected through the Karnaphuli. So the uniqueness of the river should be protected for the sake of the country.
The minister instructed the officials concerned to take tough actions against those responsible for polluting and occupying the river.
He said port city residents would be benefitted once the project to address waterlogging crisis in the city is completed. He also urged city dwellers to keep the canals and drains clean.
Among others, Chattogram City Corporation mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Chattogram Zila Parishad chairman MA Salam, Chattogram Wasa managing director AKM Fazlullah and Chattogram Development Authority chairman Jahirul Alam Dobhash were present at the meeting.