The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has been functioning without a full-time administrator for more than a year, along with 11 other crucial positions remaining vacant, causing a significant disruption in service delivery and impacting residents. Currently, Md Shahjahan Mia, an additional secretary at the Local Government Division, is serving as the temporary administrator of DSCC, while also fulfilling the role of Managing Director of Dhaka WASA alongside. This dual responsibility has led to operational challenges for both entities.
The absence of a permanent administrator and key personnel at DSCC has resulted in delays in essential services such as road maintenance, mosquito control, waste management, asset protection, and the issuance of vital documents like birth certificates. Due to the lack of executive officers in five out of the corporation’s ten zones, service provision has severely faltered, compelling locals to visit the central office for even minor concerns. Some residents have voiced frustration over the inadequate municipal services despite regular tax payments. They have also highlighted the frequent absence of designated officials at ward offices, causing delays in crucial paperwork processing.
Additionally, the revenue-boosting initiatives have been halted due to the absence of a Chief Revenue Officer, leading to the re-encroachment of previously reclaimed lands in the absence of a Property Officer. The lack of a Chief Urban Planner has resulted in haphazard development, posing potential risks to the city’s infrastructure in the long term. Furthermore, financial transparency and accountability are in question due to the unfilled positions of accountants and auditors, which is concerning.
Since August 5, 2024, the operations of Dhaka’s two city corporations have faced significant challenges. While Dhaka North City Corporation managed to navigate these obstacles more effectively after appointing a permanent administrator, DSCC continues to struggle. The recent upheaval during BNP leader Ishraque Hossain’s month-long protest at Nagar Bhaban earlier this year further exacerbated the instability within DSCC. It is imperative for the government to promptly address these issues, ensuring the swift appointment of key personnel in DSCC to restore seamless service delivery. With over one crore residents under DSCC’s jurisdiction, urgent actions are needed to alleviate their hardships.