River Excavation, Environmental Push and ICT-Like Governance Planning Highlight Water Resources Initiative
Water Resources Ministry State Minister Farhad Hossain Azad has said that eucalyptus trees are disrupting environmental balance. He stated that these trees consume a large amount of water, thereby harming both the environment and agriculture. He added that eucalyptus trees should no longer be planted and instead fruit-bearing, medicinal, and timber trees should be cultivated. He also called for cutting down existing eucalyptus trees.
He made these remarks on Monday, 13 April, at the inauguration ceremony of the excavation work of the Chhetanai River in the Gedipara area under Marea Bamunhat Union of Boda Upazila in Panchagarh. The State Minister said that this river once served as one of the key sources of agriculture and livelihood for local people. At present, it has turned into a dead canal.
He said that, in line with the government’s election pledge, 20,000 kilometers of rivers, water bodies, and canals will be excavated, re-excavated, and restored. Through this, water will be conserved, transforming Bangladesh once again into a land of lush greenery and abundant crops.
The State Minister further said that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has taken initiatives to green Bangladesh. Under his leadership, a master plan has been undertaken involving the Water Resources Ministry as well as the Agriculture, LGED, and Disaster Management Ministries. Under this plan, rivers and canals are being regularly re-excavated, and a target of planting 25 crore trees has been set. Arrangements will also be made for fish farming and duck rearing along canals.
He informed that approximately 1,000 workers will be involved in the excavation work of the Chhetanai River, creating employment opportunities. According to the Prime Minister’s directive, 60 percent of workers, farmers, and students will be engaged in canal excavation activities. This will increase public participation as well as employment opportunities.
The event was attended by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Robiul Islam, Upazila BNP President Abdul Mannan, General Secretary Asadullah Asad, and other local leaders.
DBTech/KIS/OR
