Coastal Climate-Code: Tech Push to Tackle Erosion

Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie has called for the maximum use of technology to prevent coastal erosion. He said that erosion-resistant coastal infrastructure is extremely important for the long-term security and economic development of Bangladesh. In this regard, it is essential to protect coastal areas from climate-induced risks by using advanced construction materials, environmentally friendly engineering, and climate-resilient design. Therefore, engineers must come forward to ensure the maximum use of technology in coastal erosion prevention.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Corrosion-Resistant Coastal Infrastructure in Bangladesh and ‘Unveiling of Project Management Training Manual (2nd Edition) & Certificate Awarding’” held on 10 May at the Institute of Engineers (IEB) auditorium in Dhaka.

The seminar, organized on the occasion of the 78th founding anniversary of the Institute of Engineers (IEB), was chaired by Engineer Muhammad Shafiqul Islam Khokon, Chairman of the Civil Engineering Division of Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB). Special guests included Engineer Mohammad Riazul Islam, Chairman of RAJUK and LGED Chief Engineer Engineer Md. Belal Hossain. The keynote speaker was Professor Dr. Md. Tareq Uddin.

In his speech as chief guest, Water Resources Minister Md. Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie said that due to high population density in Bangladesh, various environmental problems are arising in these regions. Agricultural land in coastal areas is decreasing, while the number of fishermen is increasing. In addition, overuse of coastal resources, water pollution, and destruction of mangrove forests are ongoing issues.

The minister said that as sea levels rise, coastal erosion is increasing while saline water intrusion is affecting various areas. This is damaging crops, causing marine pollution, and negatively impacting marine ecosystems. He called for the maximum use of technology to prevent coastal erosion.

Annie Chowdhury further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government is reviving the canal excavation program of martyred President Ziaur Rahman. Over the next 5 years, 20,000 kilometers of rivers, canals, ponds, and reservoirs will be excavated and re-excavated. In addition, 25 crore trees will be planted over 5 years, which, according to the minister, will create a green belt in coastal areas.

The Water Resources Minister further said that to protect the coastal environment, it is necessary to formulate Coastal Zone Management Rules and a Special Management Plan. Laws are also needed to protect agricultural land in these areas. Along with ensuring proper use of groundwater, waste management needs to be modernized. At least in coastal areas, an integrated plan must be implemented that ensures the development of both the people living there and the natural environment.

DBTech/NU/EK/OR