Dhaka:Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan emphasized the critical need for proper water management to prevent a major crisis in the future.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Khan highlighted the importance of integrating water management into all aspects of Bangladesh's development plans during a meeting with a UNICEF delegation at the Secretariat. The discussion covered the supply of safe and potable water, sanitation, the impacts of climate change, and addressing water issues in coastal areas.
Projects valued at approximately US$ 1.2 billion are currently being implemented by the Department of Public Health Engineering, WASA, and LGED with UNICEF's support. Dr. Khan underscored the direct link between water and people's lives and security, noting the potential for water to become a significant challenge for Bangladesh and globally.
He also urged learning from developed countries like Sweden, which recognized the adverse effects of indiscriminate natural resource use decades ago. Dr. Khan pointed out that Bangladesh faces similar challenges and should use such experiences to develop sustainable water management practices.
Dr. Khan further noted the substantial use of water in Bangladesh's textile and garment industries and the pollution caused by industrial waste in rivers and canals. He stressed the importance of development that does not harm people's lives and the environment, calling for comprehensive solutions that include safe water and a healthy environment alongside good housing.
The meeting was attended by UNICEF Bangladesh Representative ad interim Gillian Mellsop, Deputy Country Representative (Programme) Emmanuelle Abrioux, and other delegation members, along with representatives from the World Bank, WaterAid, and senior ministry officials.