Dhaka has been plagued with severe water logging issues for many years. On September 21, after intermittent rain throughout the day, a heavy shower caused significant flooding in a large part of the capital. Four pedestrians were electrocuted to death due to waterlogging.

We continue to face such challenges because we tend to pollute canals with non-biodegradable items, leading to massive drainage problems.

However, cartoonist Morshed Mishu initiated awareness by organising a two-day cleaning event called "Khale Hobe" for the canal of Mohamadia Housing Limited, Mohammadpur (Road 1- 4). This initiative was supported by Ward Commissioner Asif Ahmed Sarker from Ward-33, City Corporation cleaning workers, Asian Paints Bangladesh as the painting partner, Awareness 360, and dedicated volunteers on September 28 and 29.

The cannel before cleaning.

"A few days ago, when Dhaka was submerged in water after hours of rain, we witnessed the struggles people had to face. Inspired by a video shared by my university friend, Fuad, about a clogged canal, I decided to take action, said the cartoonist.

"I contacted Ward Commissioner Mr Asif Ahmed Sarker, who was enthusiastic about the project and even committed to joining with City Corporation cleaning workers," he added.

Morshed Mishu used Social media as a medium to gather volunteers for this project. "I posted a status on social media, announcing the initiative and asking for interested volunteers. Around 93 people expressed interest through a Google form. Meanwhile, Asian Paints became our painting partner and also helped us with logistical support," said Mishu.

The cannel before cleaning.

However, they encountered an issue with insufficient funds to provide food and water to the volunteers. After reaching out to various organisers and brands, they couldn't secure support due to disagreements about using banners and logos at the time.

"Our volunteers would fall sick if we did not have enough water and food supply for the labour-extensive initiative. After that, I posted another status on social media, asking for donations. An Apu from the United States donated TK 30,000 for food supply, and actress Sabnam Faria took the responsibility of supplying water for the volunteers. One of my younger brothers donated $100 from the United States, and my college senior, Plabon bhai, TK 10,000, Rifat bhaiya send us Taka 15,000. All the donations amounted to Tk 69,500 in our fund," the cartoonist explained.

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"On the first day, we had to spend about Tk 53,220, and then we faced another crisis as we needed funds for the second day. Fortunately, some individuals stepped up and decided to help us, remaining anonymous. In total, we spent approximately Tk 86,530 over two days. We received wholehearted support from the local residents, and Awareness 360 provided volunteers and arranged certificates for them," Morshed Mishu added.

During the project, Morshed Mishu was shocked by the amount of trash in the canals. "I express my gratitude to the City Corporation cleaning workers who tirelessly assisted us. Initially, we planned to collect the trash and send it to the dumping stations, but the amount was overwhelming. The only things they didn't throw in the canal were – money and gold jewellery. Apart from that, everything– from bags and mattresses to blankets and helmets– was piled up there. Obstacles like the Wasa line, drainage line, and gas line pipe prevented the trash from passing through the canal," he explained.

Morshed Mishu raised the issue with the City Corporation, discovering that a private sector had been responsible for the cleaning. But a tender problem led to inadequate cleaning for the last 3-4 months, whereas it should be cleaned weekly.

"We worked on the project on September 28 and 29, and in the following days, rain returned, and trash started reappearing in Dhaka. While we can't keep the canal clean all the time, our goal was to create awareness about waste disposal. I urge citizens to consciously dispose of waste in designated areas to keep our country clean," added the cartoonist.

Morshed Mishu's plans include cleaning and painting 200 places in the next two years and 500 places in five years. Last month, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Bangladesh, he organised a flash mop, transforming the dirty walls of Mirpur-14 into vibrant street art for the Global SDG Action Movement.

His next plan is to clean the mountains of Bangladesh in November. 

"Initially, we want to work with the indigenous people in places like Bandarban, Khagrachari, and Kaptai. If it's Khagrachari, we aim to work in Sajek Valley, and if it's Bandarban, then Nilgiri and Kaptai Lake. We want to clean the trash, paint the roads, and promote the culture and language of the tribes by including their language in the paintings. Through this movement, we want to honour their language," stated Morshed Mishu.