Dhaka gets a fresh look, by restoration of its original waterway networks, the Hatirjheel-Begunbari canals...

The Hairjheel-Begunbari canal restoration is a 'massive ventilator', spreading over 302 acres, for the rescueing the city from pollution and traffic jams and death of its water bodies by land filling and occupation by the ever-increasing city dwellers. Hoping that its citizens will keep the open lake areas pollution free by maintaing a clean-green environment for their own breathing purpose and healthy living. The continual haphazard construction and growth of 'concrete conglomerates' without preservation of the waterways or greenery over the last few years had transformed the beautiful riverine capital on the bank of river Buriganga into a city of bricks-concrete-traffic-and human jams. Now, its people will wake up and breathe fresh air from the serene blue waters of the several lakes and jheels-khals and ponds that have been dredged, made pollution free and restored. Thanks to the consorted efforts of the special units of the Armed Forces, the capital development authorities (RAJUK), the Water and Sewerage Authorities, Engineering University and other respected organizations of the governing body. This multipurpose waterbody will not only connect both east-west, north and southern parts of the city by bridges and expressways, two-way service roads but also make the city clean, fresh, lessen pollution and the traffic jams and finally protect the capital from water-logging or massive flooding from the monsoon rains.

The changing street scenes in the busy metropolis

A colourful Avenue intersection, busy with vendors even at a non-busy hour 

Arrival of International franchises in the modern metropolis.

Popular roadside puffed-rice seller

Vendor selling bright colourful woven cotton towels, himself, hidden by his load.

More double deckers will surely be welcomed by the citizens!! And who can do without our local tricycle rickshaws below.

They remain to be the easiest means of transport for the local people yet some main Avenues have banned them, shown in the sign below.

As we move into the year 2013, Dhaka, a growing metropolis, is ever changing and ever dynamic. Its growing population is pressing on the city and which is fighting to survive  the rapid urbanization in attempts to preserve its green annd clean environment, protect the city and yet meet the demands of its citizens. So the people have to help this ever-growing city to survive, by moving with its pulse and pressure. As one steps into the the bustling streets of Dhaka, it may be a fearful experience the first time, but later on, it turns out to be a fascinating one!! You encounter all kinds of people, all kinds of vehicles, bright colourful billboards, all kinds of noises, all kinds of movements, anything and everything all at the same time, it is simply overwhelming!! Soon, as you get to train the eyes, and learn to adapt, you notice a true humaness that prevails, and realize that honestly its a city that speaks to you and you will find so much dynamism in it, so much feeling and warmth and gain so much experiences that you will surely want to come back again and again. Some street scenes, both old and new,  tell you how international franchises have arrived and made their stay here while our local vendors, both stationary and mobile still continue their quick businesses in smart and clever manner. I tried to catch interesting moments, sneeking in non-rush or jam-hours, the depictions hopefully relate what  I wanted to share....Watch the the calmness prevailing, in the chaotic arrangements of both the ad-boards and the way the rickshaws make their peace at their so called parking stand after making their way through the busy streets. The truth and wonder is, it all functions in its own fascinating manner!!