Canal restoration a pillar of BNP's development vision: Khasru
Canal restoration is not just about drainage, but about reshaping urban life, boosting local economies, and improving quality of life, he says
Canal excavation represents a central pillar of the BNP's development-oriented political vision, marking a shift from mere slogans to actionable, people-centred initiatives, BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said today (2 May).
Speaking at the inauguration of a community-led canal cleaning programme in Chattogram's North Kattoli, the BNP leader said, "Canal restoration is not just about drainage, but about reshaping urban life, boosting local economies, and improving quality of life."
"Canals can become sources of economic activity, recreation, and urban renewal," he added.
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The programme, organised by North Kattoli Ward BNP and supported through voluntary labour, involved cleaning Nazir Khal and Kalir Chhara Khal.
Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, who attended as a special guest, called it the first real step toward collaborative, community-driven urban restoration.
Shahadat criticised the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) for mishandling canal restoration, saying they lacked experience but took on a Tk6,000 crore project that remains incomplete amid corruption allegations.
He noted that out of 71 canals, only a few are being restored, leaving Chattogram residents vulnerable to continued waterlogging.
The mayor revealed that a Tk400 crore proposal is pending at the ministry to procure equipment for proper canal maintenance and urged the government to respond promptly.
BNP leaders including Ershad Ullah and Abul Hashem Bakkar tied the initiative to the party's long-standing policies.
They cited Tarique Rahman's 31-point reform plan, which includes canal excavation as a strategic priority. "Ziaur Rahman once personally led canal digging to boost agriculture and food security. We must revive that legacy," said Ershad Ullah.
Speakers called for similar initiatives across Chattogram's wards and urged all political groups to work together to end the city's chronic waterlogging problem through sustainable development and local participation.
