Dinajpur: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to officially inaugurate a significant canal excavation project in the Sahapara area of Kaharol upazila on March 16, as announced by Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee. The project, which comes with a budget of Tk 5 crore, marks a crucial step in the nation’s efforts to improve water management and agricultural practices.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister shared these details during a meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office after inspecting a canal in Balrampur Sahapara, Kaharol upazila. Speaking as the chief guest, Anee emphasized that the canal excavation initiative would proceed in response to public demand, continuing the legacy of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who initiated projects to rejuvenate abandoned waterbodies and rivers for environmental and agricultural benefits.
The minister highlighted that Prime Minister Rahman has prioritized canal excavation to address climate change impacts and enhance the welfare of the country’s population. A comprehensive plan aims to excavate and re-excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals over the next five years. This initiative is expected to advance swiftly under the Prime Minister’s directives, providing improved irrigation facilities across various regions and boosting agricultural productivity.
The announcement was made during a preparatory meeting at the Dinajpur Deputy Commissioner’s Office, anticipating Prime Minister Rahman’s forthcoming visit to the area. State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad and Water Resources Secretary Dr. AKM Shahabuddin also addressed the gathering. Key political figures such as Dinajpur-1 MP Monjurul Islam, Dinajpur-2 MP Sadique Reaz, Dinajpur-3 (Sadar) MP Jahangir Alam, and local BNP leaders were present at the event.