Rajshahi: Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu announced that the nationwide canal excavation programme, which began today, follows the pioneering efforts of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. The initiative aims to re-excavate rivers, canals, and water bodies to improve irrigation, boost agricultural production, and strengthen water management. Minu emphasized the government's commitment to achieving food self-sufficiency through these efforts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minu made these remarks during the inauguration of the Damdama canal excavation programme in Godagari upazila. He recalled the severe famine Bangladesh faced from 1972 to 1975, when the population was around seven crore, and the nation struggled with food scarcity and widespread destitution.
Minu highlighted that upon coming to power, Shaheed Zia inspired the nation by transforming single-crop land into triple-crop land through extensive canal excavation. By 1977-78, these efforts had brought Bangladesh close to achieving food self-sufficiency. The minister also shared personal memories from his student days in Rajshahi, when Ziaur Rahman initiated canal digging projects that inspired significant changes in the area.
The inauguration event was attended by District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner Afia Akhtar, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Naimul Hasan, officials from various government departments, and local residents.