Chattogram: Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has announced that the planned canal excavation projects are expected to significantly enhance the country's agriculture, environment, and rural economy. "According to the election manifesto, there is a plan to excavate approximately 20,000 kilometers of canals across the country. Such a massive programme cannot be completed in a single day; it will be carried out in phases," the minister stated during the inauguration of the Bamansundar canal re-excavation project in Mirsarai Upazila.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the initiative is part of a nationwide effort spearheaded by the Prime Minister to excavate and re-excavate rivers, canals, and water bodies, with implementation by the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC). The first phase of the project aims to complete 1,200 kilometers of canal excavation within the next six months. The Bamansundar canal project is expected to bring nearly 15,000 hectares of land under cultivation, resulting in an additional food production capacity of approximately five thousand metric tons.
The minister emphasized the importance of addressing illegal encroachments on canals and water bodies, stating that strict measures would be taken against violators. The demarcation of canal boundaries has already commenced to ensure compliance with identified boundaries. He highlighted the projects' significance, comparing them to social safety net programs designed to improve living standards.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Maliyaish Multipurpose High School field, was presided over by Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam Meah. The event also featured speeches from State Minister for Land and CHT Affairs Barrister Mir Md Helal Uddin MP and local lawmaker Md Nurul Amin MP, who noted the swift implementation of pre-election commitments under the new government. Senior administrative officials, including Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Dr Md Ziauddin, were present at the event.