The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed yesterday called upon all concerned to take effective steps to make the capital Dhaka a bustling, habitable and modern city.

The Chief Adviser made the call while inaugurating a three-year gala celebrations of 400 anniversary of the capital Dhaka at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban here yesterday afternoon.

He said Dhaka city is the central point of the country's almost all activities including politics, economy, administration, trade and business as well as education and culture.

Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed said after 400 years, Dhaka has now established as a vibrant and illuminated city crossing many ups and downs.

He said the history of once Bangla then East Bengal and thereafter today's Bangladesh was basically encircled keeping Dhaka as its centre.

Mentioning Dhaka as the witness of many historical events, the Chief Adviser said Dhaka city and its people are the architects of many splendid creations including the Revolution in 1857, Language Movement, Mass Upsurge, surrendering of Pakistani occupation forces and Democratic Movement of 1990.

The Chief Adviser called upon the city corporation mayor, ward commissioners, city planners, utility service departments, civil society and conscious city dwellers to take steps to protect all surrounding rivers to save the capital city Dhaka.

He also advised all concerned including the archeological department to take meaningful initiatives for proper preservation of the historic establishments and other archeological sites including Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil and Baro Katara.

LGRD Adviser Mohammad Anwarul Iqbal also spoke on the occasion as special guest with Cultural Affairs Adviser Rasheda K Chowdhury in the chair. Cultural Affairs Secretary Md. Sharful Alam gave address of welcome.

Earlier, the three-year colourful programmes have started with the release of pigeons and balloons.

A cheerful gathering of people from all walks of lives including old Dhaka city dwellers, students, senior citizens started converging at the South Plaza in the afternoon to attend the programme.

Advisers, special assistants to the Chief Adviser and high civil and military officials were present.

Later, the Chief Adviser released a commemorative stamp of Taka six denominations marking the 400th anniversary of Dhaka as capital.

The inaugural function was followed by a colourful cultural show depicting the tradition and heritage of the capital Dhaka and its people.