Tangail: State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku has announced the commencement of dredging and re-excavation of canals and rivers across the country, aligning with the BNP’s election manifesto. The implementation of these projects will occur in phases. He made this statement while inaugurating the dredging of the Dhaleshwari and Louhajang rivers, along with riverbank protection work, at Khudirampur area under Tangail Sadar upazila.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister emphasized the crucial role that rivers, canals, and wetlands play in maintaining ecological balance. He expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of many rivers due to siltation and pollution, describing the situation of Tangail’s major rivers as alarming.
The minister highlighted that restoring the natural water flow would benefit agriculture and increase fish production, thereby improving the livelihoods of local residents. He noted that historically, communities relied on rivers for their livelihood, but these opportunities have diminished over time.
The government plans to implement riverbank protection work, construct walkways, and initiate a tree plantation program. As part of a broader initiative to plant 250 million trees over the next five years, large-scale afforestation efforts will be conducted in Tangail.
Additionally, the state minister outlined strict measures to prevent industrial waste from being discharged into rivers. A monitoring committee will be established to ensure the effective implementation of the dredging projects. In response to a query from journalists, he mentioned that steps have been taken to restore the natural flow of significant rivers, a long-standing demand from local residents. Administrative actions will be taken to remove illegal encroachments on rivers, with necessary instructions already issued to the authorities.
Addressing concerns about livestock supply ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, the minister assured that there is a sufficient stock of cattle in the country, and local farmers can meet domestic demand. He announced that the ministry will conduct an official briefing on this issue tomorrow.
The meeting was presided over by Water Development Board Executive Engineer Main Uddin, with senior officials in attendance.