Shubhadya canal excavation and protection project in keraniganj begins

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministries of Water Resources and Environment, Forest and Climate Change, emphasised the urgent need to restore the Shubhadya canal to reconnect its natural flow with the Dhaleshwari and Buriganga rivers.

She stated that reviving the canal's ecosystem and ensuring its natural course should be the clear goal of all involved.

She spoke on Tuesday at the inauguration of the project "Excavation of Shubhadya canal and development and protection of both banks (Phase 1)" at Jhau Bari Bridge area in Keraniganj, Dhaka.

She explained that, unlike other canals, this one connects the Buriganga and Dhaleshwari rivers, giving it unique environmental significance. Plans include deepening the canal, removing unauthorised encroachments, constructing embankments to prevent further occupation, and installing walkways along the banks where feasible.

She expressed hope that the work, beginning today, would be completed on time. Rizwana Hasan also appealed to local residents to extend full cooperation to the army, which has been entrusted with the work, so that the excavation can be completed smoothly.

"This project will be a visible, memorable initiative implemented by the army. The full budget details have already been shared with you, as citizens, taxpayers, and locals – it is your right to know," she added.

She also emphasized that to make the canal water clear and blue, industrial waste and sewage discharge must be halted, and household waste should be properly managed by local authorities.

Lieutenant General Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (retd), Adviser to the Ministries of Home and Agriculture, described the Shubhadya canal as a traditional resource vital for the area's water flow, agriculture, fisheries, drainage, livelihoods, and the environment.

He said re-excavation would restore water flow, reduce waterlogging, revive aquatic biodiversity, and improve local conditions. He called for vigilance against land grabbers and urged strong community action to prevent pollution and encroachment.

The project, with an allocation of Tk317.59 crore, will be implemented by the Bangladesh Army's 24 Engineering Construction Brigade under the supervision of the Bangladesh Water Development Board.

Engineer Md Enayet Ullah, Director General of the Water Development Board, delivered the welcome address. Engineer-in-Chief of the Army Headquarters Major General Md Hasan-uz-Zaman, also spoke at the event. Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Md. Mokabbir Hossain, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation, Md. Ejaz, Divisional Commissioner of Dhaka, Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, DIG of Dhaka Range, Rezaul Karim Mallik, and Dhaka Deputy Commissioner, Tanvir Ahmed, were present, along with senior officials of the local administration.