SCC issues warning over Surma Riverbank waste
Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) Administrator Abdul Quiyum Chowdhury has warned business owners against dumping waste on the banks of the Surma River, saying legal action will be taken against those found violating the rules.
He issued the warning during an inspection of the riverbank near Dariyashah Shrine Road in the Kadamtali area of Sylhet city last Thursday afternoon.
Various types of non-biodegradable waste, including discarded mobile phones, electronic components and other waste, have been dumped along the riverbank, causing environmental pollution and disrupting the natural ecosystem of the area.
During the inspection, the SCC administrator observed discarded electronic items and other waste at the site and warned the concerned business owners against further dumping.
Abdul Quiyum Chowdhury said damaging the environment by dumping waste on riverbanks, in canals or in drains was completely unacceptable.
He said the City Corporation was working to build an eco-friendly and livable “Green City,” but indiscriminate dumping of waste was hindering the initiative.
The SCC administrator also said polythene and other non-biodegradable waste dumped in rivers, canals and drains disrupt the natural flow of water and pose a threat to public health.
Urging business owners to dispose of waste at designated locations, he said a clean city could not be achieved through the efforts of the City Corporation alone.
“Everyone in the city, including members of the business community, must act responsibly,” he said.
Abdul Quiyum Chowdhury said the SCC’s goal was to create a clean, safe and livable city while ensuring quality civic services, adding that cooperation from residents was essential to achieving the goal.
During the inspection, he also discussed an unused plot of land next to the Shahjalal Bridge and announced plans to construct a futsal court there.
He said the facility would create opportunities for local children and youths to participate in sports, while the remaining unused space could be used for public welfare activities.
SCC Executive Magistrate Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, Chief Waste Management Officer Lt. Col. (Retd.) Mohammad Eklim Abedin and Ward No. 26 BNP President Akhtar Rashid Chowdhury were present during the inspection.
