Special Correspondent :
On the occasion of World Nature Conservation Day, a groundbreaking step has been taken to make the capital Dhaka greener, more sustainable and climate-tolerant. The ‘Second Miyawaki Urban Forest’ has been inaugurated in the lakeside area of Uttara Sector-17 in the capital.
This special forest area is being developed under the initiative of Shakti Foundation for Disadvantaged Women and in collaboration with Mutual Trust Bank PLC (MTB), with the overall support of Rajdhani Unnayan Kartik (RAJUK).
Colorful inauguration ceremony and guests Rajuk’s Honorable Chairman Engineer Md. Riazul Islam was present as the chief guest at the ceremony organized today, July 28, 2026 (Tuesday).
Syed Mahbubur Rahman, Managing Director and CEO of Mutual Trust Bank PLC, was present as the special guest. Imran Ahmed, Deputy Executive Director of Shakti Foundation, presided over the program.
In addition, RAJUK Member (Planning) Mohammad Bashirul Haque Bhuiyan, Chief Engineer (Project and Design) Mohammad Muzaffar Uddin, Chief Engineer (Implementation) Md. Aminur Rahman, Deputy Managing Director of MTB Mohammad Mamun Faruk and Turag Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mostafizur Rahman along with top government and private officials were present at the program.
Following the world-famous Japanese method of creating dense forests in light areas, around 6,100 indigenous fruit, flower and medicinal trees are being planted in this 2,285 square meter garden. At least 93 species of endangered and popular native trees are being planted in it, which will play a great role in reducing air pollution and temperature in the city.
RAJUK Chairman’s Call: In his speech as the chief guest, the RAJUK Chairman said, “There is no alternative to urban forestry to build a green and livable Dhaka. My sincere thanks to Shakti Foundation and MTB for implementing the commitment of this green initiative of RAJUK. However, the local people and all stakeholders need a joint role in the long-term conservation and maintenance of this forest area.”
Balance of development and environment: MTB CEO Syed Mahbubur Rahman said, “Dhaka was once much greener and more open. In today’s fast-growing city, Miyawaki Forest reminds us that not only concrete development, but also environmental conservation must be taken forward.”
Urgent need for maintenance: Shakti Foundation Deputy Executive Director Imran Ahmed said, “Planting trees is not the last word, but proper care is the most important thing. If taken care of properly in the next two years, it will become a sustainable asset for the next generation.”
Special Evaluation
This joint coordination of government, private and development partner organizations against rapid urbanization and climate change is an excellent example of nature-based solutions. Such an urban forest in the heart of the capital will not only enliven civic life, but also act as a natural wall to prevent air pollution.
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