DCCI seeks better use of inland waterways

DCCI President Taskeen Ahmed paid a courtesy call on Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee, MP, at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Saturday (11 May).

During the meeting, Ahmed emphasised the urgent need to revitalise Bangladesh's riverine transport system, linking the country's economic future to the restoration of its inland waterways.

He noted that, despite the country's natural advantages, barriers such as siltation, reduced navigability, and encroachment have left the waterways largely underutilised, hindering national growth.

Ahmed called for focused action on riverbank recovery, dredging, and infrastructure, stating that these are critical to unlocking efficient logistics and supporting business competitiveness.

He welcomed the government's waterbody excavation plan, emphasising its vital role in boosting transport, reducing costs, and driving economic and agricultural advancement.

He also suggested that strategic management of the 112-kilometre circular waterway encircling the capital—linking the Buriganga, Turag, Balu, Shitalakkhya and Dhaleshwari rivers—could provide an effective alternative transport system to help alleviate Dhaka's traffic congestion.

Ahmed also advocated greater private-sector involvement. He suggested that public-private partnerships could be instrumental in addressing dredging needs and providing logistical support for canal excavation.

Minister Anee reaffirmed the commitment to developing inland waterways as cost-effective transport and noted that initiatives are underway.

He noted that several initiatives are already underway. He called for greater private-sector participation in the canal excavation programme.

He stressed that successful implementation will be a cornerstone for environmentally sustainable, national economic growth.

DCCI Senior Vice-President Razeev H Chowdhury, Vice-President Md Salem Sulaiman, and Acting Secretary General Dr AKM Asaudzzaman Patwary were also present.