Rajshahi:Experts, public representatives, and stakeholders have emphasized the urgent need for an integrated water management policy to combat the worsening water crisis in the Barind region. This crisis is driven by declining groundwater levels, dwindling surface water sources, and rising temperatures.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the call for action was made during a day-long policy dialogue titled 'Protecting the Barind Region,' held in Rajshahi. The event was organized by Youth in Research and Action for Social Change in collaboration with UN Human Rights, WaterAid, Swisscontact, and the Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research.
Prime Minister's Special Assistant for Health Affairs, Dr. SM Ziauddin Haider, who attended the event as the chief guest, highlighted the government's focus on addressing climate-related challenges in the northwestern region. He mentioned that allocations had been made to enhance canal excavation and the activities of the Barind Multipurpose Development Authority (BMDA). Dr. Haider advocated for an integrated water management plan, emphasizing the restoration of dried-up canals and wetlands and the construction of reservoirs linked to the Padma River for storing excess monsoon water.
Professor Golam Mostafa from Rajshahi University noted a significant annual decline in groundwater levels and reported extreme temperatures in the region. He highlighted the heavy reliance on groundwater for irrigation, with around 15,000 deep tube wells in use.
Mostafizur Rahman, MP from Naogaon-1, pointed out the consequences of extensive groundwater extraction due to irrigation-dependent agriculture. He called for a coordinated policy to align the activities of various government agencies and stressed the importance of rainwater conservation and expanding irrigation facilities.
BMDA Executive Director Jahangir Alam discussed efforts to increase surface water use and highlighted challenges in managing government ponds and monitoring private groundwater extraction. He emphasized the need for efficient water distribution systems to reduce wastage.
Mahmuda Habiba, MP from a reserved women's seat, highlighted the broader implications of the water crisis on human development and climate change. She pointed to upstream dams and barriers as factors reducing downstream water availability and advocated for research-based assessments tailored to the specific needs of different areas.
The dialogue concluded with recommendations for diversifying crops, improving irrigation efficiency, conserving monsoon water, and increasing soil moisture retention.