News Desk

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to inaugurate a nationwide canal excavation and re-excavation programme on March 16, aiming to strengthen water management, improve irrigation facilities and boost agricultural production across Bangladesh.

According to an official release, the prime minister will formally launch the initiative by initiating canal excavation work at Kaharole upazila in Dinajpur district. The programme is part of a broader government plan to restore and improve the country’s water bodies in order to support farming and reduce water-related challenges.

In the first phase, the project will be implemented in 54 districts across the country. On the same day, ministers, advisers, the chief whip of the Jatiya Sangsad (National Parliament), state ministers, whips and members of parliament will simultaneously inaugurate similar activities in the remaining 53 districts.

The BNP-led government has taken the initiative in line with its election manifesto, which pledged large-scale excavation and restoration of rivers, canals and other water bodies. Over the next five years, the government plans to excavate and re-excavate around 20,000 kilometres of rivers, canals, reservoirs and other water bodies nationwide.

Officials say the programme is expected to significantly enhance irrigation capacity, enabling farmers to cultivate crops more efficiently and increase agricultural output. The initiative is also expected to create employment opportunities for rural communities, particularly during the excavation process.

In addition, authorities believe the project will increase the availability of surface water and reduce excessive reliance on groundwater resources. Experts say such measures are important for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring long-term water security.

The government also hopes the programme will help mitigate natural challenges such as drought, floods and waterlogging in different parts of the country by improving the overall drainage and water distribution system.