Khulna City Corporation (KCC) Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju has stressed the urgent need to transform Khulna into a clean and green city, citing the strong connection between poor sanitation, mosquito infestation, and mosquito-borne diseases.
Addressing a meeting titled ‘Voluntary Initiatives to Control Environmental Pollution in Khulna City Corporation’ at the GIZ auditorium of Nagar Bhaban on Sunday, Manju said inspections are underway across wards to identify barriers to cleanliness. “Unless these obstacles are removed, waterlogging problems cannot be solved,” he added.
At the meeting, a waste management concept paper prepared by Khulna Paribesh Surakkha Mancha was presented by Prof Dr Md Wasiul Islam of Khulna University. Speakers noted that water, air, noise, and polythene pollution are interlinked and aggravated by poor waste management. Polythene waste, in particular, is clogging drains and worsening waterlogging, despite 22 surrounding canals serving the city.
Manju highlighted the nationwide tree plantation initiative to plant five crore saplings this year and announced public consultations under “What Kind of Khulna We Want” to guide future development. Ward No. 27 will serve as a pilot for the proposed waste management plan.
Participants emphasized public awareness, behavioral change, and volunteer involvement, recommending cultural programs and engagement with teachers and imams to promote environmental responsibility.