Students spearhead canal cleanup in the capital

“We will clean it ourselves—keeping these canals clean is our responsibility too,” declared Niha, a fourth-grade student at Hazrat Ayesha (RA) Academy, attending as Chief Guest alongside her fellow classmates, during a canal visit and cleanup programme at Kallyanpur Canals (Adabar, Road No-10, Khalpar), Dhaka on February 25, 2025. Her words encapsulate the determination of young students leading a grassroots initiative to combat plastic pollution in the capital’s waterways, supported by teachers, Red Orange Limited, and the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).

The initiative traces back to a Khudba (sermon) at a local mosque, where teachers from Hazrat Ayesha (RA) Academy in Adabar, Mohammadpur, first learned of the “Save Canals, Save City” campaign. Inspired by a similar event at Nobodiganta Adorsho High School in Kallyanpur, part of the PLEASE Project, they brought the effort to their own school. On February 13, Red Orange launched a campaign at the academy, equipping students and teachers with knowledge, pamphlets, and a mission to address the detrimental effects of plastic pollution and empower individuals to take action. 

During the event, students were urged to engage their families. “Observe how your parents handle plastic and ask, ‘Where does this garbage go?”. The students took this to heart, sharing PLEASE Project materials at home and igniting discussions on responsible plastic use. Teachers praised the initiative, remarking, “This is very interesting. Our students should participate more in these kinds of activities.”

The campaign culminated today (25 February), with a cleanup at Kallyanpur canals. Students from Hazrat Ayesha (RA) Academy guided by DNCC served as Chief Guest, with teachers as Special Guests, underscoring the student-led spirit. “Let’s clean it and show everyone how it’s done,” the students proclaimed as they tackled the polluted waterways.

Representatives from DNCC, Rokib Hasan and Abul Hashem (Conservancy Officers) lauded their efforts, stating, “We’re proud you acted. Saving canals saves the city—but it’s not only our job. Tell your parents; everyone must step up and play their part.” Teachers echoed this pride: “Our kids are responsible and empowered. This small step leads to big change. Let’s keep this going.”

The PLEASE Project Manager of Red Orange said, “It is not possible to clean plastic and waste from the canal every day. Raising awareness is essential for this. If we do not throw waste and plastic into the canal, there will be no need for cleaning. The canal's flow will remain smooth, and the environment will stay healthy. That is why we are working to raise awareness.”

The campaign’s impact will be showcased through more follow up activities planned as part of the initiative, including exhibitions featuring student homework, photos, and project highlights, online talk shows with students and more community led efforts. Stakeholders and media are invited to attend and witness how small steps—from a mosque sermon to a canal cleanup—are sparking big change.