Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Bir Muktijoddha Md Abdus Salam on Tuesday warned that historic and heritage sites in the capital would no longer be allowed to deteriorate, saying their preservation was a moral and civic responsibility of the state and all concerned parties.
He made the remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of preservation work on old graves at Dhaka Christian Cemetery in Wari, Dhaka, on Tuesday.
Abdus Salam said he had been working since taking charge to restore the fading heritage and character of Old Dhaka, which he described as the foundation around which the modern megacity developed.
“Old Dhaka’s historical sites hold immense importance. Therefore, no heritage from the past will be allowed to be destroyed,” he said.
Recalling Wari’s historical significance, the DSCC administrator said the area was once considered one of Dhaka’s most prestigious neighbourhoods due to its river-based connectivity and urban facilities. He said many prominent people had lived there and the city corporation was working to restore the area, including nearby Baldha Garden, to its earlier improved and organised condition.
Speaking on communal harmony and equal rights, Abdus Salam said Bangladesh had no concept of “minority” and that all citizens were equal regardless of religion.
“We are all Bangladeshis by identity and equal citizens of this country. The rights I have are exactly the same rights my friends of other religions have,” he said, adding that people should live peacefully with mutual respect and harmony.
The DSCC administrator said the corporation would maintain the cemetery’s peaceful and orderly environment by improving roads, drainage, lighting and cleanliness facilities. He also announced an immediate Tk5 lakh allocation from DSCC funds for maintenance of the cemetery and said further financial support would be provided if needed.
Outlining a future plan for Old Dhaka, Abdus Salam said narrow roads would be kept clean and adequate lighting would be ensured. He called for coordinated efforts among local representatives, officials and residents to maintain discipline and cleanliness, including managing the presence of floating populations in the area.
