The Bangladesh Tree Protection Movement (BTPM) arranged the 51st consecutive day of the ongoing sit-in demonstration yesterday, in collaboration with the POBA, Prottasha (an anti-drug organisation), Work for a Better Bangladesh Trust (WBB Trust), and Panthakunja Probhati Sangha at Panthakunja Park, located opposite the Kathalbagan slope gate in Karwan Bazar. 

As part of their efforts to raise awareness and voice opposition to the proposed elevated expressway linking Karwan Bazar to Palashi, the movement organised discussions and community-based activities. The elevated expressway threatens the Hatirjheel reservoir and the lush green expanse of Panthakunja Park.

The event, titled "Choto Boro Mile Panthakunjake Akbo Chobi" (Let's Unite to Draw for Panthakunja), commenced at 3pm and involved artistic activities engaging participants of all ages in both small and large groups.

Renowned artist Kafil Ahmed inaugurated the programme, which saw participation from hundreds of local children, including students from Dhaka Ideal Cadet School, Milon Hope Night School, Lokkhi Bibi Night School, and Mobile Quality School alongside local children.

The protestors called for the termination of the Dhaka Elevated Expressway (DEE), citing its detrimental impact on both public welfare and the environment. Their protest focused on the preservation of Panthakunja Park and Hatirjheel which are threatened by the construction of ramps for DEE.

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Artists and activists demand restoration of Panthakunja Park