Desk Report:
The government has launched a special initiative to transform Dhaka—and the entire country—into a clean, pollution-free, and healthy environment. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has stated that there is a specific goal to make the capital, Dhaka, as clean and well-maintained as Tokyo, the capital of Japan.
He shared this vision on Wednesday evening (October 29, 2026) during an interactive session with the Bangladeshi expatriate community at Hotel New Otani in Tokyo, Japan. At the event—organized by the local Bangladeshi community—the Prime Minister addressed various questions raised by the expatriates.
Cleanliness and Waste Management: The Prime Minister noted that one rarely sees litter on the streets of Tokyo. In contrast, trash is often found scattered across various locations in Dhaka—a situation that must change. Since waste can become a breeding ground for germs, maintaining a clean environment and ensuring proper waste disposal is essential for protecting the health of city residents.
Environment and Air Pollution Control: The government is placing a strong emphasis on reducing air pollution, improving the overall environment, and promoting nationwide tree plantation. The Prime Minister highlighted that effective measures will be taken to ensure that people’s daily lives are not hindered by litter, and that no one falls ill due to polluted air. He remarked that successfully transforming Dhaka into a city as clean as Tokyo would represent a major reform for the nation.
Focusing Reforms on Marginalized Communities: A primary priority for the government is to ensure that the benefits of these reforms reach the working class and marginalized segments of society. Initiatives in education, healthcare, and environmental development are being designed to provide direct benefits to the general public. Regarding political reforms, he emphasized that the well-being of the broader population remains his top priority.
A Call to Expatriates: Seeking the support of the expatriate community in nation-building and the government’s reform efforts, the Prime Minister stated that the successful implementation of these initiatives would benefit the general public, including the families of those living abroad. She stated clearly, “I am not asking you to vote for the BNP. If you believe these initiatives are the right ones, then support us so that they can be implemented.”
At the beginning of the event, the Prime Minister outlined various plans for the expatriate community—covering areas such as early childhood education, healthcare, the simplification of business and trade processes, the revival of closed industrial units, and the creation of new employment opportunities.
Also present at the event were Dr. Zubaida Rahman, Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, as well as various ministers, advisors, and high-ranking officials. At the conclusion of the program, the Japan chapter of the BNP presented a photograph to the Prime Minister and his spouse.
