The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Rajshahi

Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) has been implementing a development project aimed at attaining economic prosperity and poverty alleviation in the metropolitan areas.

Sources said the four-year project styled "Secondary Towns Integrated Flood Protection (Phase-2)" is being implemented with the objectives of promoting economic growth and alleviate poverty in the metropolis by providing a flood-free and secure living environment within the framework of integrated flood protection. Talking to BSS Superintending Engineer of RCC Ashraful Haque said the Taka 109-crore project would be executed in four components like flood protection works, urban drainage system and environmental improvement including solid waste management, sanitation and slum improvement and capacity building and implementation assistance.

Asian Development Bank (ADB) and OPEC have been extending financial support to implement the project.

RCC has been constructing large and open unlined drainage outfalls in addition to improving the existing drains aimed at reducing flooding of low-lying urban areas and to improve environmental conditions.

Engineer Ashraf said the project would focus on upgrading the conditions of the poorest and needy groups of people particularly in the slums.

It would also promote active participation of women in municipal management and services through urban governance reforms and support to gender and development activities.

Road improvement works for small stretches connecting slums and solid waste disposal facilities are also included in respective subcomponents.

Apart from this, Water Development Board (WDB) will develop and rehabilitate the 19-kilometer city protection embankment along with its existing infrastructures like drainage regulators and bank protection spars and groins from Berpara to Satbaria point.

On successful implementation, the project would contribute a lot to make the city more hygienic and habitable, officials added.