Rangpur: The people of all five districts in the greater Rangpur area are set to observe a 'Stabdha Rangpur' (Silent Rangpur) program on October 30, calling for the implementation of the Teesta Master Plan (TMP). Principal Asadul Habib Dulu, Chief Coordinator of the Teesta River Protection Movement and BNP Organizing Secretary for the Rangpur division, announced that the program will take place from 11:00 am to 11:15 am as part of the ongoing movement to save the Teesta River.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the movement committee has urged everyone in society to pause all activities for 15 minutes to demonstrate unity for the protection and survival of the Teesta River. This silent protest aims to convey the collective message: "If Teesta remains alive, North Bengal will remain alive; if Teesta remains alive, Bangladesh will remain alive." Participants, including students, teachers, farmers, workers, traders, transport owners, and government and private officials, across the five districts, are encouraged to join in solidarity.
Drivers of all vehicles, including motorcycles, bicycles, trucks, buses, and trains, have been requested to stop and remain stationary for the 15-minute duration. In educational institutions, teachers and students will suspend academic activities during this time. Principal Asadul Habib Dulu emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that if the government does not commence work on the Teesta Master Plan with its own funding before the election schedule is announced, a larger movement will be initiated with the people living along the Teesta.
The people of northern Bangladesh are united in their demand for the Teesta Master Plan's implementation. The river is considered vital for their life, livelihood, and culture. Millions of people in the Teesta basin depend on restoring the river's water flow and vitality. Earlier efforts under the 'Teesta River Protection Movement' included sit-in programs, memoranda sent to the Chief Adviser, mass processions, and torchlight processions to voice the demand for the plan's implementation.
The fate of approximately two crore people residing in the river basin is closely tied to the river's flow and revival. Currently, the Teesta poses challenges due to floods and droughts, impacting the lives of those living along its banks. The movement demanding the Teesta Master Plan's implementation is intensifying, with hopes that its realization will transform the region's lifeline and lead to economic benefits. Movement leaders have pledged to continue their efforts until the plan is implemented.