Barishal:A Taka 730-crore mega development project has been approved to address longstanding waterlogging, restore the city's canals and water bodies, improve the environment, and transform Barishal into a more planned and aesthetically attractive urban centre.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), at a meeting held on Wednesday with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in the chair, gave final approval to the project titled 'Recovery and Re-excavation of Different Canals in Barishal City Corporation, Including Protection of Canal Banks'.
Under the project, 30 canals and 10 ponds in Barishal city will be re-excavated and renovated, 19 aesthetically designed ghats will be constructed, and 57 kilometres of drains will be built or reconstructed to improve the city's drainage system. Of the total project cost, the government will provide 90 percent of the funding, while the remaining 10 percent, amounting to Taka 73 crore, will be provided by Barishal City Corporation from its own resources.
The approval has generated enthusiasm and renewed hopes among city residents, who have long been grappling with waterlogging, inadequate drainage facilities, and the gradual degradation of canals and ponds. Member Secretary of Barishal Nagorik Samaj and Sachetan Nagorik Samaj, Dr Mizanur Rahman, said the project would play an important role in resolving the city's longstanding drainage problems and environmental challenges.
A major component of the project involves restoring 30 canals through re-excavation, bank protection, landscaping, and measures to revive their natural environment. Of these, 10 canals will have walkways along both banks, accompanied by tree plantation and decorative lighting to create attractive public spaces for residents.
The project will also ensure the flow of tidal water from the Kirtonkhola River into the canals, alongside improved water drainage facilities, to restore the natural water circulation system. In addition, 10 ponds and lakes will be re-excavated and renovated, with their banks protected and surrounding areas beautified through tree plantation and sustainable lighting arrangements.
Barishal City Corporation Chief Engineer Md Humayun Kabir said the ghats would enhance the beauty of the ponds while making them more convenient for public activities. Another major component is the construction and reconstruction of 57 kilometres of drains, along with the renovation of the existing drainage network.
Officials expect that the improved drainage infrastructure will significantly enhance water discharge capacity and reduce recurring waterlogging across the metropolitan area. Barishal City Corporation Administrator Advocate Bilkis Akhtar Jahan Shirin expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for approving the development initiative.
She highlighted that important milestones, including the establishment of Barishal Division, Barishal City Corporation, and the airport, had been achieved during Begum Khaleda Zia's tenure, contributing to the development of the southern region. Describing the newly approved project as a reflection of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's commitment to Barishal, she expressed optimism that the initiative would usher in a new chapter in the city's urban development.