Massive potholes have emerged across Hatirjheel’s scenic roadway, turning it into a hazard zone. Since the onset of the monsoon, large caters filled with rainwater have formed along the 7. 5 kilometre one-way loop surrounding the lake, making them invisible to drivers triggering an increase in accidents and traffic disruption.
When people are bored in the midst of the nerve-racking cacophony of the city and fidget about finding a breathing space, Hatirjheel could be an ideal place for them to relax. The lake was considered as a great gift for the residents of the capital city. Since the opening of this open-air lake in 2013 people found it a beautiful entertainment spot
The concept of smart city to rebuild the metropolis came up to heal myriad ills the residents suffer from every passing day .But such a concept can never be materialised when the existing facilities are deprived of proper maintenance. Many of the projects taken in the past for people’s welfare turned dud because of mismanagement.
Hatirjheel is overseen by the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk), but recently it has become the victim of the neglect of Rajuk. At least 113 hazardous potholes have developed near Kunipara stretch. Asphalt erosion, exposed gravel, and waterlogged craters have made the road traffic-unworthy. Potholes near Hatirjheel Amphitheatre, police plaza, south Badda, and Rampura, Moghbazar now force vehicles to stop abruptly. Rain hides the potholes and traffic snarls are worse than ever. The roads were once beautiful, but now they are broken and no one is fixing them.
Initially maintained by the Bangladesh Army, the project was handed over to Rajuk, after which complaints of neglect began to surface. Even the road outside Rajuk’s Hatirjheel office is riddled with potholes and knee-deep water accumulates near the building. Stray dogs sleep on the staircases and the reception desk is unmanned. The building meant for oversight, is largely used for parking and rented out to garages
Moreover, water of Hatirjheel now looks murky and spreads stink. The lake water now emits an overpowering stench posing a health hazard. The aesthetic beauty and the wide open-space of the entertainment spot are in jeopardy due to offensive odour of the contaminated water of the lake. The lake water has also turned foul with trash and weeds accumulating. Most of the streetlights have been stolen leaving the area dangerously dark at night. Despite the pollution going on, so far we know, none in charge of overseeing the dirt –free clean water of the lake has ever been taken to task.
One Superintending engineer of the Rajuk said the repairs are pending due to the tendering process and it will take two to three months to repair the roads. roadsthreemonths
