Dhaka Heritage Cycle Rally marks 416th anniversary of city foundation
Photo Collected
Approximately 300 cyclists participated in the “Dhaka Heritage Cycle Rally” on Friday, an event designed to foster civic responsibility and deepen public appreciation for the capital’s 416-year history and cultural diversity. The rally was organized by the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) as part of the month-long “Hridoye Dhaka 416” festival, which commemorates Dhaka Day.
State Minister for Road Transport and Bridges and Railways, Habibur Rashid Habib, inaugurated the rally at 7:00 a.m. at the historic Dhaka Gate. The event was attended by Member of Parliament for the Dhaka-7 constituency, Hamidur Rahman, and presided over by DSCC Administrator and valiant freedom fighter Abdus Salam.
The procession navigated through key city landmarks, including the Teacher-Student Center (TSC) of Dhaka University, Shahbagh, Science Lab, Nilkhet, Azimpur, Dhakeshwari Temple, Bakshibazar, Central Shaheed Minar, and the Secretariat, before concluding at Nagar Bhaban. Following the ride, participants were awarded medals and certificates.
Addressing the participants, State Minister Habib emphasized the necessity of transforming Dhaka into a cleaner and more livable city. He advocated for improved infrastructure to support young cyclists and highlighted the importance of a safe, healthy urban environment.
DSCC Administrator Abdus Salam noted that the festival aims to bridge the gap between citizens and the city’s rich heritage. He remarked that a lack of awareness regarding Dhaka’s history has contributed to challenges in waste management, traffic discipline, and environmental conservation. The festival seeks to instill a sense of ownership among residents under the slogan, “My City, My Responsibility,” in support of the “Clean City, Green City” initiative.
The month-long festival continues with a series of scheduled events. A “Dhaka Heritage Run” is set for Saturday, stretching from Motijheel Shapla Chattar to the Buriganga Stage. Upcoming highlights include a traditional boat race on August 21, the screening of classic films at Madhumita Cinema Hall on August 22, and a heritage parade featuring vintage cars, rickshaws, and horse-drawn carriages on August 28.
The official inauguration of the “Hridoye Dhaka 416” festival is slated for August 29 at Lalbagh Fort, coinciding with the launch of special cleaning, mosquito control, and tree-plantation campaigns. The celebrations will conclude on September 5 with a traditional “Panchayati Adda” at the Alamganj jetty.
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