Walkways, residences at severe risk

Devastating erosion has started at both sides of Gulshan Lake in the capital due to strong surge created by movement of water taxis putting different installations including walkways and houses at risk of collapse.

A panicky situation has created among local residents for this. Meanwhile, a group of agitating people, who live near walkways especially from the road No. 136 to 143, has submitted a mass-petition to chairman of the RAJUK seeking immediate steps to repair damaged portions of walkways and resist the erosion.

Locals said, erosion has now taken a serious turn due to the hit of strong surge created from plying of water taxis in the lake. Negligence of RAJUK authorities is blamed for such situation.

If proper steps to repair both banks and walkways would take earlier, such situation was not created. Now the walkways and many multistoried buildings including residences, located beside the lake, have been threatened by the devastating erosion of the Lake.

Barrister Shukla Sarwat Siraj, Secretary General of Gulshan Society said, "If steps are not taken right now, the situation may worsen. This is why, authorities concerned should take immediate steps to prevent the erosion and repair damaged portions of the walkways."

Seeking anonymity, a member of the Gulshan Society said, "A good number of installations including residences may face dire consequences soon due to onslaught of erosion.

Strong surges originated from random movement of water taxis and lack of maintenance by the authorities concerned are the main among many other reasons behind the erosion. But, the authorities concerned have no headache in this regard."

During a visit to the spot, this correspondent has found that, large holes and cracks have developed at different points of the walkways. Big chunks of earth in many places have devoured by big surges of the lake. Besides, many parts have turned seriously vulnerable.

Locals complained, RAJUK did not take any step to repair the walkways after the construction. Erosion has started, while water taxis started to ply through the lake. However, the authorities of the RAJUK did not pay heed to the matter.

Denying the allegation of negligence, Abdur Rahman, Chairman of RAJUK said, "I have come to know the matter. I'll take necessary steps to protect the area after talking to Hatirjheel Project authorities. Besides, there is needed allocation of big amount fund to repair the damaged area."