Nikunja Tanpara Writes a New Story of Change, Sets Sights on a Drug-Free Community

Staff Correspondent: The Nikunja Tanpara Welfare Society has pledged to transform Nikunja Tanpara in Khilkhet, Dhaka, into a safe, clean, well-planned, humane and drug-free residential neighborhood. After years of addressing civic problems, reducing waterlogging, protecting the environment, preventing illegal activities and raising public awareness, the organization has now announced a comprehensive community-driven campaign aimed at making the area completely drug-free.

The declaration came at the first special general meeting of the newly formed Executive Committee, held at the society’s office on Thursday at 5:00 pm. The meeting focused on future action plans, strengthening the organization’s institutional capacity, enhancing public safety, expanding civic services and placing anti-drug initiatives at the top of its priorities. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to working collectively to establish Nikunja Tanpara as one of the capital’s model residential communities.

The meeting was chaired by Jahid Ikbal, President of the Society and a senior journalist, while Mukul Hossain Mridha, Joint General Secretary, conducted the proceedings.

Among those who addressed the meeting were General Secretary Saikat Sarker, Vice-President Principal Md. Misbah Uddin, Organizing Secretary A. M. Ayub Pappu, Treasurer Matiur Rahman Swapan, Sports Secretary Nurul Amin Majumdar (Jhintu) and Office Secretary Dr. Atikur Rahman Khan.

Other speakers included Publicity Secretary Amir Hossain, Executive Members Emdadul Haque Sohel, Jisad Ikbal, Mahfuzur Rahman, Jahidul Haque Jewel, Mostafa Sikder, Litu Ahmed Liton, Engineer Altaf Hossain, Tasbir Ikbal and other committee members.

In his presidential address, Jahid Ikbal said, “Our goal is not merely to build a beautiful residential neighborhood; we want to establish a community where security, discipline, cleanliness, social harmony and mutual cooperation prevail. We aspire to make Nikunja Tanpara a model residential area that can serve as an example for communities across the country.”

He noted that through sustained efforts, numerous public meetings, awareness campaigns, administrative cooperation and the united support of local residents, the area has successfully eliminated battery-operated auto-rickshaws. Over the past 15 months, the initiative has significantly reduced traffic congestion, minimized accident risks and ensured safer movement for pedestrians. He described the achievement as a shining example of what community unity and collective action can accomplish.

Jahid Ikbal further said, “Our next mission is to establish Nikunja Tanpara as a drug-free community. Drugs destroy not only individuals but also families, future generations and society as a whole. Our stance against drugs will therefore be uncompromising. Alongside law enforcement agencies, every family, every young person and every responsible citizen must become part of this social movement.”

He announced that the society would soon launch a series of anti-drug awareness campaigns, neighborhood meetings, youth engagement through sports, cultural and social activities, discussions with parents and coordinated initiatives involving law enforcement agencies. Continuous awareness programs highlighting the devastating consequences of drug abuse and promoting community-based prevention strategies will also be implemented.

General Secretary Saikat Sarker described Nikunja Tanpara as one of Dhaka’s strategically important residential areas due to its proximity to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, major road networks and commercial establishments. He emphasized that emerging urban challenges require active participation from both public authorities and local residents.

“We cannot afford to step back from these challenges,” he said. “Everyone must contribute from their respective positions. We want to build a participatory community where every resident feels responsible for the neighborhood’s development. Civic awareness and social unity remain our greatest strengths.”

Speaking on the anti-drug campaign, he added, “Drug abuse is one of the greatest threats to the future of any nation. Engaging young people in sports, education, cultural activities and other positive social initiatives is the most effective way to secure their future. Prevention remains the most effective strategy for eliminating drug abuse.”

Organizing Secretary A. M. Ayub Pappu said that the true strength of any organization lies not in titles or positions but in public trust, unity and sustained community service. He reaffirmed that the Nikunja Tanpara Welfare Society would continue working alongside residents to find practical solutions to civic problems.

Established in 1997, the Nikunja Tanpara Welfare Society has been serving the community for nearly three decades through initiatives promoting social development, civic rights and public welfare. Over the years, it has earned the confidence of residents and evolved into a respected community platform.

In recent years, the organization has played a leading role in creating a battery-operated auto-rickshaw-free neighborhood, coordinating with government authorities to address waterlogging, improving drainage systems through community participation, raising awareness against illegal occupation and other anti-social activities, promoting environmental cleanliness and enhancing civic amenities.

Members attending the meeting expressed confidence that the newly elected Executive Committee would continue its public service with dedication, integrity and courage. They said that if the society succeeds in implementing its commitment to building a drug-free, clean, safe and modern residential neighborhood, Nikunja Tanpara could emerge as a model of community-led urban development—not only for Dhaka but for communities across Bangladesh.