'Community participation a must to keep city clean'

They said it is difficult for Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) alone to keep a city of 12 million people clean.

The rally was organised by the DCC in association with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and JICA Alumni Association of Bangladesh in observance of World Environment Day at Shahbagh.

With the slogan 'Let's keep our environment clean' the awareness and promotional programme took place at the Shishu Park.

A total of 50 students from Abdul Gafur Shikkha Shibir and Surovi School took part in the programme. They launched the programme by cleaning the park.

In his welcome speech Country Representative of JICA Bangladesh Akio Arai said JICA has decided to continue its support to Clean Dhaka Programme.

"If we want clean environment, we must behave ourselves in environment-friendly manner," he said urging all citizens to work together to ensure a better life for next generation.

Following the Master Plan and Solid Waste Management Study 2003-04, the Clean Dhaka Programme is going to be implemented through the DCC.

"This is a 15-year programme, and following the example of Dhaka, other cities can also start the cleaning programme involving their citizens," said Saifuddin Ahmed, chief executive officer of the DCC.

President of JICA Alumni Association of Bangladesh Azmal Chowdhury also spoke at the rally followed by a cultural function.