Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee has said a nationwide canal excavation drive has been launched following the political philosophy of former President Ziaur Rahman.
He made the remarks on Monday (March 2) while visiting the Boiragir Chala Choukkar canal in the Sreepur municipality area of Gazipur. The minister said that in line with the election pledge, 20,000 kilometres of canals will be excavated across the country over the next five years.
During the visit, he said, this revolutionary movement was initiated by Ziaur Rahman in the interest of farmers. Ensuring water flow through canal excavation enables farmers to irrigate their land more easily and boosts fish production, he said.
He noted that prolonged neglect of the project had led to various problems, including waterlogging. Encroachment by influential groups, who have built houses and markets on canal land, has put the existence of many canals at risk.
The minister added that several canals in Sreepur and Gazipur will be excavated, and visible progress has already been made within the first 180 days of the government’s tenure. After assuming office, the current administration waived BDT 15 billion in agricultural loans to support farmers. The assistance is aimed at revitalising the agriculture-based economy and increasing crop production, he said.
Addressing the event, the minister said that while it may not be possible to provide jobs to everyone, employment opportunities will be created. “The government is committed to completing the unfinished work of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia. It’s also determined to implement the declared 31-point programme to achieve social and humanitarian development. Public welfare initiatives will move forward by facing any obstacles,” he added.
The event was presided over by Abdul Motaleb, convener of Sreepur Upazila BNP. State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain and Gazipur-3 MP SM Rafiqul Islam Bachchu also spoke at the programme. Among others present were District BNP Member Secretary Barrister Ishraq Ahmed Siddique and local party leaders.