Dhaka: Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee has announced that the government is working to transform the canal excavation programme initiated by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman into a modern and scientific movement to build a new Bangladesh. “The main objective of the programme, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is to strengthen the rural economy, reduce pressure on underground water resources, and address climate change impacts while making the country self-reliant in agriculture and fisheries production,” Anee stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Anee discussed the progress of the government’s 180-day master plan, the benefits of canal re-excavation, and the targets for the next five years in an exclusive interview at his Secretariat office. He emphasized that canal re-excavation is not merely about digging soil but represents an economic and environmental revolution.
He credited Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman with introducing the programme with foresight and noted its revival under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman after years of neglect. The initiative is creating employment opportunities for rural workers and expanding irrigation facilities for agriculture. Anee highlighted the significance of this programme as a foundation for building a new Bangladesh.
Regarding the ministry’s 180-day plan, Anee explained that specific targets had been set from the beginning of his tenure. The programme has already been inaugurated in four districts, with further expansion planned in Chandpur. Lawmakers and ministers nationwide are turning the initiative into a movement across their constituencies.
The ambitious target is to excavate or re-excavate at least 20,000 kilometres of canals over the next five years. Anee underscored the wide-ranging economic impacts of the project, noting that local participation in the work benefits rural labourers and expands local trade. Fish farming and the planting of fruit-bearing and medicinal trees along canal banks are also part of the plan.
Anee mentioned that expanded irrigation facilities could increase agricultural production two to three times. He reminisced about the time of Shaheed Zia, when Bangladesh achieved food self-sufficiency and exported agricultural products, expressing a desire to return to that stage.
On groundwater protection, Anee addressed the issue of declining underground water levels due to deep tube well usage, especially in coastal areas. The increased use of surface water through canal excavation is expected to alleviate pressure on groundwater, helping maintain ecological and climate balance.
Issuing a warning against illegal canal occupiers, Anee announced a crackdown on unauthorized markets and structures built over canals and efforts to reclaim such spaces. Restored canals are expected to reduce waterlogging issues.
Farmers and labourers are identified as direct beneficiaries of the programme. Anee emphasized the importance of agriculture in Bangladesh, stating that canal excavation is essential for supporting farmers and achieving a self-reliant Bangladesh.