The interim government has launched an initiative to restore water flow in 19 canals across Dhaka ahead of the monsoon season, reports The Business Standard.
As part of the first phase, Environment, Forest, Climate Change, and Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan inaugurated renovation work on four canals in Dhaka North and two in Dhaka South on Sunday morning. The work began at a section of Baunia Canal in Mirpur-13.
The initiative is being coordinated by the Ministry of Environment and Climate, Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Dhaka North City Corporation, Dhaka South City Corporation, and other relevant agencies.
"We are working to see how multiple ministries can restore the canals' flow before the monsoon. Excavation will be done first, followed by further steps in phases," Rizwana said.
She stressed the need for community involvement, stating, "We want the canals to become hubs of life. Right now, they only serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. We will form committees with locals to prevent encroachment and pollution. Our aim is to restore greenery along the banks and create conditions where fish can survive."
Rizwana expressed optimism about completing work on 19 canals before the monsoon and noted plans to develop a long-term master plan for their management.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
