The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) organized the historic 'Dhaka Heritage Run' with the noble aim of highlighting the rich history, heritage, and cultural landmarks of Dhaka to the civic society, thereby fostering a sense of affection and responsibility towards the city. This special initiative was taken as part of the 'Hridoye Dhaka 416' festival, which is essentially part of a month-long program celebrating Dhaka's 416th anniversary and 'Dhaka Day' on August 1st. With a strong resolve to build a clean and green city, this running competition was held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, with thousands of citizens participating spontaneously.
The colorful rally commenced at 7 AM from Motijheel Shapla Chattar in the capital. State Minister for Youth and Sports, Aminul Haque, inaugurated the 'Dhaka Heritage Run' as the chief guest. Hamidur Rahman, Member of Parliament for Dhaka-7, was present as a special guest, while DSCC Administrator and valiant freedom fighter Md. Abdus Salam presided over the event. More than 1,000 people participated in this event, running along Dhaka's traditional routes, expressing their solidarity with the city's history and culture.
This historic running competition started from Motijheel Shapla Chattar and proceeded through Kakrail Mor, Ramna, Shahbagh Mor, Katabon Mor, and the Dhaka University area. It then crossed Palashy Mor and circled the historic grounds of Lalbagh Fort. Finally, the rally concluded at Swarighat (launch terminal) in Old Dhaka, via Shahidnagar Mor. Each participating runner received a medal and a certificate from the DSCC, which will serve as a memento of their historic journey.
In his speech as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony, State Minister for Youth and Sports, Aminul Haque, praised the visionary leadership of the Honorable Prime Minister, stating that just as the Prime Minister has given utmost importance to sports, she has similarly emphasized preserving our rich heritage. He termed the DSCC Administrator's initiative as highly timely and appropriate. The State Minister believes that such events will better introduce the glorious history and heritage of our country to the new generation, making them more interested in their roots.
DSCC Administrator Md. Abdus Salam, who presided over the event, addressed the participants of the Heritage Run, saying, "By participating in today's run, you have witnessed the real picture of various areas of Dhaka firsthand. Smooth roads in some places, broken or muddy conditions in others due to rain – this is the reality of our beloved Dhaka. Amidst this reality, we face the challenge of making the lives of city dwellers more beautiful and smoother." He emphasized that there is no alternative to cleanliness for building a beautiful and livable Dhaka.
Administrator Abdus Salam further mentioned that if city dwellers do not litter indiscriminately and if businesses and general residents cooperate with the City Corporation, then Dhaka can be kept even cleaner and more beautiful. He also urged City Corporation officials and employees to ensure maximum service according to their responsibilities. He pledged to correct any shortcomings in this first-time Heritage Run in subsequent editions and committed to organizing such events annually.
Speaking about future plans, the DSCC Administrator informed that they have plans to develop Old Dhaka into an attractive tourist destination. Additionally, the City Corporation's agenda includes plans to create separate lanes for cycling and suitable paths for walking and running. He stated, "I will fulfill my responsibilities, and you will fulfill yours. If everyone properly carries out their respective duties, then this city of Dhaka will truly become more beautiful and livable." Finally, this event has become not just a running competition, but a symbol of a collective commitment to building a clean, green, and traditional Dhaka.
