Chattogram: Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Adviser Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan has stated that the persistent waterlogging issue plaguing Chattogram is entirely man-made. He attributed the situation to previous city officials and the former chairman of the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA), who he claims are responsible for the current predicament. “I studied at a primary school, high school, and Chattogram College in this city, but I have never seen such waterlogging before,” remarked Fouzul, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the problem.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser highlighted the unlawful encroachment of canals for the construction of houses, offices, and markets as a key factor contributing to the waterlogging. Fouzul, who also serves as an adviser for Road Transport and Bridges, expressed his commitment to addressing the issue by demolishing the encroachments and reclaiming the canals. Speaking at an event after inspecting the excavation and cleaning efforts of Birjakhal, funded by the Chattogram city unit of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, he stressed the importance of collective action in tackling the problem.
Fouzul noted the challenge posed by residents who continue to dispose of waste into the canals, undermining cleaning efforts. He reported the distribution of approximately 10,000 dustbins to encourage proper waste disposal and warned that legal action would be taken against those who fail to comply. “We will do everything necessary to resolve waterlogging in Chattogram,” he asserted, appealing for community cooperation.
The event was presided over by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s central working committee member and former MP Shahjahan Chowdhury, with Chattogram city Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain serving as the main speaker. Dr. Hossain emphasized the collaborative efforts required to transform Chattogram into a green and healthy city, expressing gratitude to Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for their involvement in the Birjakhal project.
The gathering was moderated by Jamaat-e-Islami Chattogram city unit General Secretary Principal Muhammad Nurul Amin, with notable attendees including CDA Chairman Engineer Nourul Karim, CDA Chief Engineer Kazi Hasan Bin Shams, and CDA Board Member Engineer Manjare Khorshed Alam.