Dhaka, Mar 13 (V7N) – The Netherlands has expressed its interest in supporting the sustainable development of canals and water bodies within the jurisdiction of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and in establishing a Blue Network in the capital. This was stated by Dutch Ambassador to Bangladesh, Andre Carstens, during a courtesy call and meeting with DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz.

The meeting took place at the Gulshan Nagar Bhaban in Dhaka on Thursday morning.

During the discussions, DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz briefed the Dutch envoy on the ongoing canal excavation and cleaning activities undertaken by DNCC. He emphasized the city corporation’s efforts to restore and expand waterways to combat waterlogging and enhance urban resilience.

"DNCC has already started the excavation and cleaning of canals to establish a Blue Network in Dhaka city," Ejaz stated. "We are working in collaboration with other government agencies and development organizations. The Netherlands can provide us with financial and technical support to implement this initiative successfully."

Ejaz further highlighted that the Netherlands' expertise in hydro-economic development and urban water management could serve as an effective model for Dhaka’s urban waterways. "The beautiful canals of the Netherlands are world-renowned. Their experience in developing blue networks can be highly beneficial for us," he added.

In response, Ambassador Andre Carstens reaffirmed the Netherlands' commitment to supporting waterlogging reduction, sanitation management, and sustainable canal development in Dhaka.

"There is great potential to develop a Blue Network in Dhaka by improving its canal systems," Carstens noted. "The Netherlands is keen to collaborate on this initiative. We will soon present a detailed proposal outlining our support in this regard."

The collaboration between DNCC and the Netherlands is expected to play a significant role in addressing Dhaka’s urban flooding challenges, while also strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries.

END/MSS/AJ