Dhaka: State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam has announced a major environmental initiative under which the government will excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals and plant 25 crore trees across the country over the next five years. This initiative will be led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement was made by the state minister during the inauguration of a canal re-excavation programme at Saheber Meth village under Mithakhali union in Rampal upazila. The state minister highlighted that this initiative is a continuation of the vision set by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who originally launched canal excavation programmes to bolster rural development and agriculture.
The state minister called on the public to avoid injustice and violence, emphasizing the importance of working together to create a safe and livable country for future generations.
Currently, the re-excavation of four canals, including one near Madurpalta Bazar Bridge in Mongla upazila, is in progress. This project spans 8.34 kilometers and is being executed at a cost of Taka 59.67 lakh. The Center for Natural Resource Studies is implementing the project with financial backing from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom. The project is expected to be completed by March 25.