Cooling Canon: DNCC Sprays Water to Ease Heat at Dhaka Protest

In a notable first, the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) deployed its high-powered spray cannon—originally introduced in 2023 to combat air pollution and suppress dust—to reduce ambient heat during a public protest in the capital.

The incident occurred on Friday (May 9) in front of the InterContinental Hotel, where a protest rally organized by the National Citizens' Party (NCP) was underway. The demonstration, which began shortly before 3:00 PM, demanded a ban on the ruling Awami League. To alleviate the intense heat affecting protesters, DNCC deployed the spray cannon to mist the air with water, providing temporary relief.

Two DNCC vehicles equipped with spray cannons arrived at the scene. One of the vehicles began spraying water from 3:00 PM, and the operation was ongoing at the time this report was filed. Protesters visibly welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude to DNCC for the much-needed respite from the oppressive heat.

Demonstrators from various political parties, student groups, and general citizens were seen holding placards and festoons as they participated in the rally. Many of them acknowledged that the water mist significantly reduced the discomfort caused by the blazing sun.

The protest, which began at 10:00 PM on Thursday (May 8), was spearheaded by Hasanat Abdullah, who had called for a continuous sit-in program. Responding to his call, leaders and activists from different political organizations joined the movement. Around 1:00 AM, NCP Convener Nahid Islam and Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain led a march toward the Jamuna area, accompanied by senior party officials.

The demonstration later saw participation from leaders and activists of several other groups, including Hefazat-e-Islam, AB Party, Islami Chhatra Shibir, Democratic Students’ Union, July Unity, and Inqilab Mancha. By early morning hours, a diverse coalition of political and student groups had assembled in solidarity with the protest.