Dhaka to be transformed into ‘safe city’ with 40 new playgrounds: Tarique

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday promised to transform Dhaka into a “safe city” and construct at least 40 playgrounds across the capital if his party is elected.

Addressing a roadside rally at ECB Chattar of Mirpur in the city, Tarique said his party aims to make Dhaka a liveable city where people can move freely, work securely and enjoy public spaces without fear.

“We want a city where mothers and sisters can walk safely at any time, where residents can carry out their businesses and daily lives without worry. Dhaka should be a beautiful, breathable city,” he said.

Highlighting the acute shortage of playfields, Tarique said the new playgrounds would provide children with spaces to play and allow elders and women areas to walk and spend time outdoors.

“InshaAllah, if BNP forms the government on 12 February, we will not only build playgrounds here but also establish at least 40 playgrounds across Dhaka,” he added.

The BNP chairman also pledged to improve local infrastructure, including developing the road from ECB Chattar to Jasimuddin area to ease traffic and communication problems for residents.

Introducing himself as a local, Tarique said he was born and raised in the area.

“My children and my brother’s children were born here, and our family has long-standing roots in this community,” he said, appealing to voters to support the BNP’s election symbol, the sheaf of paddy, in the 12 February parliamentary election.

He emphasised that the upcoming election is crucial for rebuilding the nation and pledged to prioritise urban safety, public amenities, and improved civic infrastructure if elected.

The rally also served as the first day of Tarique’s final election campaign in Dhaka, and he is scheduled to address several more rallies in the coming days.

These include Pallabi’s Lalmath under Dhaka-16, Mirpur under Dhaka-15, the National Bangla High School ground under Dhaka-14, Shyamoli Club ground under Dhaka-13, and Satarkul in Badda under Dhaka-11.

Tarique’s campaign underscores a focus on transforming Dhaka into a safer, more inclusive city, enhancing public spaces for children, women and elderly people, and addressing long-standing infrastructural deficiencies in the capital.