Chandpur: Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee announced that illegal establishments on canals nationwide will be removed under the government’s canal excavation program. The minister emphasized the importance of this initiative in fulfilling the government’s election pledge, prioritizing public interest by freeing canals from encroachment.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Anee addressed these issues while speaking to journalists at Chandpur Circuit House. He acknowledged potential legal challenges during eviction drives but assured that these would be managed through collaboration with district and local administrations.
Earlier, Anee visited Shah Mahmudpur Union in Chandpur Sadar upazila, where Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to inaugurate the canal excavation on May 16. He reiterated that any illegal structures on canal sites must be removed, or legal actions will follow.
The minister highlighted the government’s clear objective of rebuilding Bangladesh with collective cooperation. He credited Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman for pioneering the canal excavation drive, which Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has revitalized, gaining momentum in various districts.
Anee noted the neglect of the canal excavation program by previous governments, which led to illegal encroachments. He was accompanied by local parliament members Sheikh Farid Ahmed Manik, MA Hannan, former lawmaker Harunur Rashid, and government officials. The minister later participated in a preparatory meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office regarding the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit.