Dakshinkhan Thana Road in Dire Condition Due to City Corporation Negligence

Dakshinkhan Thana Road under Ward 47 of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has remained unrepaired for a long time, causing severe suffering to residents due to potholes and waterlogging.

Poor drainage and sewerage systems, potholes and waterlogging have made even moderate rainfall a major problem for residents of Dakshinkhan. The fragile drainage system causes the road to go under water after even light rain.

During a visit to the area, this correspondent found numerous potholes and inadequate drainage along roads in Faydabad, Dewanbari, Lal Masjid, Gawair Mollabari and the neighbourhoods around Askona City Complex. Thousands of residents face daily difficulties due to the poor condition of the roads.

The road from Chalabon through Dakshinkhan Thana, the mass graveyard, the transmitter area and Faydabad has developed large potholes at several points, with bricks and road materials washed away. The potholes turn into pools of water during rain, while dust creates health risks for pedestrians during the dry season.

Rickshaws, auto-rickshaws and private vehicles often have to move unsteadily because of the large potholes, resulting in frequent accidents. Thousands of people visit Dakshinkhan Police Station every day for legal and administrative purposes. The poor condition of the connecting roads also hampers the movement of fire service vehicles, ambulances and other emergency vehicles.

Due to the lack of a proper drainage system, foul-smelling water mixed with sewage accumulates in low-lying areas even after light rainfall, making it difficult for people to walk.

Local residents expressed frustration, saying no one has taken steps to address their suffering for years.

Mohammad Akter Hossain, a permanent resident of Dakshinkhan Thana Road, said, “Although we are under the city corporation, we are still deprived of civic facilities. As soon as it rains, the roads around the police station and neighbourhoods become flooded with mud and water. Sending our children to school or going outside for an emergency becomes a terrible experience.”

A local easy-bike driver said the poor condition of the roads is constantly damaging vehicle parts, forcing him to spend most of his earnings on repairs.

Asked about the matter, the Regional Executive Officer of DNCC Zone 7 said sustainable development of roads and drainage systems in the newly incorporated wards is being carried out in phases under a mega project. He said temporary disruption had occurred due to the installation of drainage pipes and excavation by various service agencies. He added that instructions had been given to reconstruct and pave the road as soon as possible.

Considering public interest and the importance of the area, local residents have demanded urgent intervention by the DNCC authorities to complete the drainage work and repair Dakshinkhan Thana Road.