Dhanmondi Lakeside: A Morning Haven Amidst the City's Chaos

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Dhaka's city life, Dhanmondi Lakeside stands as a rare oasis of calm and greenery. The dew-covered walkways, the lush banks, and the shimmering waves of water in the morning light breathe new energy into the hearts of city dwellers. Every day at dawn, the lakeside transforms into a lively festival of health, vitality, and social bonding.

The lake was originally preserved in 1956 as part of the Dhanmondi residential area plan. In 1996, a rehabilitation program was launched, and by 2000, the lakeside was opened to citizens. Covering 37.37 hectares in total, the lake includes 54.60 acres of water and 31 acres of land. It stretches around 3 kilometers in length, with a width ranging from 35 to 100 meters and a maximum depth of 4.77 meters.

With the first rays of the sun, the stretch from Baitul Aman Mosque to Bridge No. 5 and Bridge No. 8 awakens. The sound of footsteps fills the cool morning breeze-some people walk leisurely for health benefits, others jog with determination, while teenagers play football on the concrete field. In one corner, students of the Green Defense Academy practice fitness drills under the guidance of instructor Sutadru Safat, their firm steps blending with the brightness of the new day.

The park is equipped with multiple entrances, open seating areas, walking paths, and five toilets-though their poor maintenance is evident. The Dhanmondi Society has taken on a major role in managing the park, keeping it hawker-free and clean through its own initiative. Two security guards are employed by the society, which also bears the cost of 18 barricades for safety. Every morning, a humanitarian effort also adds value to the lakeside. Former army officer Belal Hossain has been providing low-cost blood pressure and diabetes testing for the past five years, offering the service from his own busy schedule. Similarly, Arif, helena, and shamimextend the same support, acting as silent guardians of public health amidst the city's chaos.

Yet, the lakeside faces challenges. Swapan kunar, a businessman who has visited the park for 16 years, said the beauty has faded due to the growing menace of drug addicts and petty thieves. He urged authorities to prioritize cleanliness and security. Shafiqul Islam, a service holder, echoed similar concerns, saying negligence is slowly eroding the park's natural beauty.

Dhanmondi Society General Secretary Nazmul Khan told the asian age that despite applying, the society has not received any government allocation. "Even then, we have managed to keep part of the park clean and hawker-free for citizens. Every month, we pay salaries to two guards and have installed at least 18 barricades for safety. If we were given full responsibility, the entire lakeside could have been maintained in a sparkling condition," he said.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Chief Property Officer Hasiba Khan said cleanliness falls under the waste management department. She added, "Those who lease parts of the park must comply with certain conditions. If violations are found, necessary action will be taken.

Despite these concerns, the early morning gathering at Dhanmondi Lakeside remains a priceless treasure for the people of Dhaka-a place where nature, health, and community come together in the heart of the capital.