The renovated Masjidul Akbar Eidgah ground, adjacent to Mirpur Zoo Road under the jurisdiction of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), was officially inaugurated on Thursday following completion of refurbishment works.
DNCC Administrator Md Shafiqul Islam Khan attended the ceremony as chief guest.
The renovation, implemented by DNCC’s Environment, Climate and Disaster Management Circle, was carried out at a cost of Tk1.28 crore.
The project included improvements to the drainage system, construction of a 260-metre-long walkway, installation of security fencing, multiple entry gates, street lighting, and dustbins.
The upgraded facility can accommodate approximately 7,000 worshippers for Eid prayers at a time, with provisions also made for funeral prayers.
During the event, the DNCC administrator said, “Many of my childhood memories are associated with this ground. It is also linked with my political life. We are determined to develop it into a clean, beautiful and safe environment.”
He added, “Illegal fish markets are being set up around the ground without permission, causing environmental pollution, foul odours and public inconvenience. From today, no unauthorised raw markets, fish markets, or food courts will be allowed to occupy the sidewalks around the ground. I have issued instructions in this regard, and concerned officials will implement them with the cooperation of local residents.”
The administrator said the ground would remain open throughout the day for public use, particularly for children’s sports and recreation. He assured that necessary sports equipment would be provided by the city corporation, adding that promoting sports and physical activity is essential to keep the younger generation away from drugs and crime.
Parliament Member Sanjida Islam Tuli also spoke at the event, highlighting the lack of play and recreation spaces for children and adolescents in Dhaka. She said, “Many grounds have been occupied or left unmanaged. Through this renovation, a safe and beautiful environment has been created, and everyone must contribute socially to preserve it.”
She further called on local residents to help prevent environmental degradation caused by illegal food courts, fish markets, and encroachments on sidewalks.
Other dignitaries present at the ceremony included Parliament Member Ferdous Ahmed Mishti, DNCC Chief Engineer Brigadier General Syed Rakibul Hasan, Regional Executive Officer Jalal Uddin, officials from the Environment, Climate and Disaster Management Circle, local representatives, political leaders, religious scholars, and prominent members of the community.
