Chattogram: Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain today emphasized the significance of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's canal digging program as a philosophy of economic liberation that promoted agricultural development and food self-reliance. "The emphasis on agriculture, garment industries and human resource development is key to strengthening the national economy and overcoming present challenges," he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Mayor made these remarks during the inauguration of a new meeting room and a historic memorial plaque in Harla village of Chandanaish upazila. The plaque marks the site where President Ziaur Rahman was martyred in 1980 while supervising the digging of the Barumati Canal. The Mayor also inaugurated the Barumati Canal, part of Shaheed Zia's initiative to boost agricultural output and rural self-reliance.
Dr. Shahadat underscored the importance of prioritizing agriculture and a production-oriented economy to achieve economic freedom. He remarked that Shaheed Zia's principles of patriotism, honesty, and economic emancipation remain relevant today. The canal digging program not only popularized agriculture but also significantly contributed to the country's GDP growth.
Between 1979 and 1981, 279 projects resulted in the excavation of approximately 3,636 miles of canals, enhancing agricultural output and fostering rural self-reliance. Launched in 1977, Shaheed Zia's program aimed to store excess water during the rainy season and provide irrigation during the dry season, establishing a self-sufficient food model for the nation.
Dr. Shahadat further highlighted that experts believe continuing the canal-digging program could have mitigated the impact of annual floods in Bangladesh. The event also featured Dr. Mohsin Zillur Rahman, Family Planning Secretary of the BNP Central Committee; Alhaj Md. Idris Mia, South District BNP Convener; Justice Abdus Salam Mamun, founding joint secretary of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, and Md. Ikhtiar Hossain, member of the South District BNP Convening Committee.