Dhaka: Water Resources Affairs Minister Md Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee emphasized the critical importance of sustainable water management during a discussion held at Pani Bhaban in the capital on the occasion of World Water Day-2026. Anee highlighted water as not only a vital source of life but also a symbol of equality and justice, calling for comprehensive action plans to ensure safe and adequate water supply for everyone.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Anee stressed the importance of raising public awareness about water’s significance. He noted that floodwaters often bring hardship, while drought-induced water scarcity disrupts lives and livelihoods. He referenced the severe floods of 2024, which led to widespread waterlogging in districts such as Sylhet, Cumilla, Noakhali, and Lakshmipur, underscoring the need for proactive measures in water management.
Anee urged ministry and organizational leaders to formulate and implement effective action plans. He referenced the canal excavation program initiated by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, noting the current government’s efforts to expand this initiative. With 54 districts already participating, approximately 1,200 kilometers are set to be excavated within 180 days, and a total of 20,000 kilometers of canals are planned to be dug nationwide over the next five years.
State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad, serving as a special guest at the event, reiterated the intrinsic link between water, people’s livelihoods, and socio-economic conditions. He highlighted the urgent need for measures to combat desertification in the northern region and salinity in the southern region, advocating for collaborative efforts to secure safe and potable water for future generations.
The event featured insights from water resources and climate change expert Dr. Ainun Nishat and was chaired by Water Resources Secretary Dr. AKM Shahabuddin. Notable contributions came from Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association CEO Syeda Rizwana Hasan and BUET’s Water Resources Strategy Department Professor Dr. Md Ataur Rahman. The Bangladesh Water Development Board Director General Md Enayet Ullah delivered the welcome speech.