The dire state of Dhanmondi Lake

Dhanmondi Lake used to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the city. People use the walkway for morning walks, and many do their free-hand exercise in the parking space. It is also a popular socialising spot for city dwellers. 

Fish traders wash their dishes in the water. Photo: Abir Abdullah

While walking in the morning, I was very shocked to see the bad state of the lake and its surroundings. The place is filled with garbage now.

Broken earthen pots, badminton racket bag, abandoned flowers, water containers, polyethene bags, single-use plastic plates etc are visible in almost every corner of the lake. I was left speechless at how visitors of all social classes throw things into the water.

A couple takes a photo in front of a water fountain in the lake. Photo: Abir Abdullah

People ride paddle boats in the water, which has turned green and emits a foul smell. Littering by visitors and shop-owners in one hand, and lack of maintenance on the other, has turned the lake into a veritable dump.

The lake deserves immediate attention from the relevant authorities to make it as beautiful and healthy as it was. 

A biodegradable earthen pot meets a non-biodegradable plastic cup in the lake water. Photo: Abir Abdullah

As a photographer, I feel the urge to create awareness with my photos among both the visitors who pollute the lake and relevant people who are responsible to maintain its cleanliness. 

Fallen leaves made a raft out of a single use plastic plate. Photo: Abir Abdullah

Through my photos I hope people will understand what they are doing to their own lake and become aware of their responsibilities to protect it.