Sylhet: Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee announced that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to formally inaugurate the re-excavation work of the Basia River in Sylhet district on May 2. The event marks a significant step in enhancing local infrastructure and agricultural support.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Basia River once served as a connecting point between the Surma River and the Meghna River. The late Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman had visited the area twice and initiated the original excavation of the Basia River. The re-excavation aims to restore the river’s connectivity and improve its utility for the surrounding region.
Minister Anee highlighted that approximately 5,000 hectares of land around the Basia River would benefit from the re-excavation. This project is expected to enhance irrigation facilities for agriculture and offer protection to local communities against floods and waterlogging. He urged community cooperation to ensure the success of the canal excavation programme.
The announcement was made during a visit to the Basia River in Masukganj under Sylhet Sadar Upazila. Bangladesh Water Development Board Director General Md Enayet Ullah and Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md. Sarwar Alam were present at the occasion, among others.