Dhaka: Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee announced on Wednesday that efforts are underway to reclaim canals from illegal occupants, along with initiatives to protect their banks through tree planting and beautification projects. The announcement was made during an inspection of the re-excavation and bank protection works of the Shubhadya and Ati canals in Keraniganj.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister stated that current projects are focused on dredging and restoring canals, with priority given to canal excavation projects across the country. State Minister for Water Resources Ministry, Forhad Hossain Azad, was also present during the inspection.
The minister mentioned that the work on the Shubhadya and Ati canals will be completed soon, with additional projects planned in a second phase to ensure sustainability, proper water flow, and river connectivity. The government aims to prevent canal pollution by constructing necessary infrastructure, modernizing waste management, and involving the Local Government Ministry in canal development and maintenance.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has set a five-year target to excavate and restore 20,000 kilometers of canals, ponds, and water bodies nationwide, the minister noted. Emphasis has also been placed on biodiversity conservation and implementing modern waste management practices.
State Minister Forhad Hossain Azad stated that, under the government’s electoral commitments, 20,000 kilometers of canals will be excavated, and five million trees will be planted over the next five years. He highlighted that canal dredging and restoration will improve irrigation for agriculture, restore river navigability, and reduce waterlogging.
During the visit, Minister Anee inspected areas along the Shubhadya Canal, including Khejurbag, Jorabreez, Chunkutia, and Ati Canal near Joynagar.