Dhaka can't afford to lose Hatirjhil

The photographs of floating dead fish in the city's Hatirjhil water close to the Pan Pacific Sonargaon hotel, and the accompanying news, have lately emerged as a revolting site. After enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake and its banks for nearly a decade, few were prepared to confront this shocking spectacle. But it became a shocking reality. The deaths of the fish were allegedly caused by the lake water's stagnancy in the area thanks to the ongoing work of the elevated expressway at the venue. A viaduct is planned to be constructed in the area. Water in a large segment of the lake surroundings had started stinking from the day the dead fishes were discovered. According to some in the authorities, a culvert connected to a nearby waterlogged area released dirty water into the lake's north-western part leading to the fishes' death and the putrid smell.

Even a fortnight ago, Hatirjhil saw its usual visitors languidly passing their afternoons and evenings in a mood of joviality and leisureliness. After years of hectic efforts, the authorities in charge of renovating the lake were able to taste the mission's success. The job was daunting and complicated. On a few occasions, they had to postpone their work after a long stretch of digging. Then it remained shelved for indefinite periods. Given the faltering style of the project's execution, many inquisitive people had to become doubtful about the completion of the lake's work anytime soon. But the work gained speed all of a sudden. The whole project underwent a burst of rejuvenation. The last push continued up to 2013, when it was declared open to the public. In a city with few recreational sites for the middle and lower-middle class people, Hatirjhil eventually emerged as a great attraction. Short cruises along the lake routes on board mechanised boats and roofed trawlers continued to lure people. The open-air snacks corners and conventional restaurants pulled both couples and families. A section of the eateries remained filled with raucous youths.

That a lengthy preparation was taken before the ceremonial start of the Hatirjhil venue could be spotted in the many attractions of the lakefront. Those included the well-nursed flower beds, dense bushes, smooth walkways and the small but imposing bridge connecting the lake's two banks. The lavishly lit night view of the bridge adds to the spot's overall appeal. That such a popular recreational site may have to go through occasional obstacles defies credulity. Many residents of Dhaka have yet to view Hatirjhil's beauty in full. Passing a holiday evening there amid merry crowds alongside a stretch of clean water filled with slow-speed boats may convince them of the reason why they should have visited the place earlier. At present, there are few natural recreational spots in Dhaka which can be compared with Hatirjhil. Such a major recreational spot in Dhaka cannot be allowed to fade away due to policy matters or related complications. However, it's also true that infrastructural projects warrant priority over outlets for pastime.

But the residents of a large city may also take up the case for their right to recreation. The scourges like foul-smelling dead fish floating on the lake water, dumping of filth into it and their stench etc may be over for now. But it has to be ensured that they do not occur again in the future. At the same time, there have to be scopes for rational alternatives. All this warrants well-thought-out planning for big projects.

shihabskr@ymail.com