Govt launches eviction drive nationwide to reclaim parks and playgrounds: Mirza Fakhrul

Local Government minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told Parliament that the government has launched eviction and development drives in Dhaka and across the country to reclaim parks and playgrounds from illegal occupiers and make them safe for public use.

Responding to a parliamentary notice on Monday, he acknowledged that many playgrounds and open spaces had been occupied over the years. He said restoration and modernization efforts are already underway, with several parks and fields in Dhaka renovated or being upgraded, while similar projects are progressing in other cities, including Chattogram and Khulna.

The minister also stressed the importance of protecting children from excessive screen time by providing safe recreational spaces. Addressing concerns over drug use in parks and playgrounds, he said the government is strengthening enforcement against drug dealers and users while promoting a nationwide social awareness campaign to keep public spaces safe for young people and families.