Munshiganj: Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee today inaugurated the re-excavation work of Hosendi canal under the Employment Generation Programme for the Poorest (EGPP) of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief in Gazaria upazila of Munshiganj district. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the minister highlighted the challenges faced by waterways due to neglect in previous years.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister pointed out that many canals have become dysfunctional over the years due to lack of excavation during the previous government’s tenure. He noted that several waterways have gradually silted up, with some rivers effectively turning into canals, and many water bodies have been illegally occupied due to inadequate maintenance.
The minister emphasized that canal re-excavation initiatives have helped strengthen public engagement with development activities. He mentioned the renewed momentum created under the leadership of Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman. The ongoing canal excavation programme is part of broader development efforts, with plans to excavate 20,000 kilometres of canals within the next five years.
He expressed hope that the successful implementation of this initiative would contribute to building a self-reliant and prosperous “New Bangladesh”. The minister added that canal re-excavation activities are generating employment opportunities, supporting the rural economy, and contributing to environmental improvement.
Among others, Member of Parliament Md. Kamruzzaman Ratan, Superintendent of Police Md. Menhazul Alam, Acting Deputy Commissioner Mousumi Mahbub, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Muhammad Musabberul Islam, Gazaria Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Mahmudul Hasan, and District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer Muhammad Mubinur Rahman were present on the occasion.