Dhaka's Historic Sites Must Not Be Allowed to Fall Into Ruin: DSCC Administrator

Historic and heritage sites across Dhaka must be protected from further deterioration, Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Md Abdus Salam has said, stressing that preserving historical landmarks is a shared responsibility.

He made the remarks Tuesday while inaugurating a conservation initiative for historic graves at Dhaka Christian Cemetery in Wari, one of the capital's oldest heritage sites.

Speaking as chief guest, the DSCC administrator said he had been making continuous efforts since assuming office to restore the disappearing heritage and traditional character of Old Dhaka.

"Today's megacity has grown around Old Dhaka, and its historical sites carry immense significance. No more historic monuments or heritage sites should be allowed to be destroyed," he said.

Recalling Wari's past, Salam said the area was once considered one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods of Dhaka because of its river-based communication network and urban amenities. Many prominent personalities once lived there, he noted.

He said the city corporation was working to restore the area, including surroundings of historic Baldha Garden, to a cleaner, more orderly and environmentally pleasant condition.

Emphasising communal harmony and equal citizenship, the DSCC administrator said there should be no distinction among citizens based on religion.

"There is no such term as 'minority' in Bangladesh. We are all Bangladeshis and equal citizens. The rights I enjoy are exactly the same rights enjoyed by my friends of other faiths. We do not want any division; we want to live together peacefully with mutual respect and harmony among people of all religions," he said.

During the inauguration, Salam said the peaceful and orderly environment of the historic cemetery would be maintained. He announced that DSCC would strengthen road infrastructure, drainage, lighting and cleanliness around the cemetery.

He announced an immediate grant of Tk 500,000 from DSCC funds for overall maintenance and said further assistance would be provided if necessary.

Outlining his vision for Old Dhaka, the administrator said although many roads are narrow, they would be kept clean and adequately illuminated.

He also called for coordinated efforts involving local representatives, government officials and residents to maintain cleanliness and discipline in different neighbourhoods, including measures to manage floating populations.

The initiative to conserve historic graves at Dhaka Christian Cemetery is part of broader efforts to preserve Dhaka's heritage and improve civic environment of old neighbourhoods.