Munshiganj, May 07 (V7N) — Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie has said that canal excavation and re-excavation projects are playing a key role in strengthening Bangladesh’s rural economy, improving agriculture, and enhancing environmental conditions.

He made the remarks while inaugurating the re-excavation work of the 2.10-kilometre-long Hossaindi Canal in Jamaldi area of Hossaindi Union under Gazaria upazila in Munshiganj on Thursday (May 7).

The project is being implemented under the Employment for the Extremely Poor Program (EGPP) with funding from the Disaster Management Department. A total allocation of Tk 49,75,954 has been approved for the fiscal year 2025–2026.

The minister said that canal excavation initiatives have historically played an important role in rural development and credited past leadership for similar efforts. He also noted that the current government is continuing such development programs through large-scale water management and irrigation projects.

Local lawmaker Kamruzzaman Ratan, speaking as a special guest, said the project would significantly improve agriculture, water drainage, and fish farming in Hossaindi Union and added that similar initiatives will be expanded across Gazaria in phases.

Officials present at the event included representatives from the district administration, law enforcement, and local administration, along with political leaders and community representatives.

Authorities said the canal re-excavation is expected to reduce waterlogging, improve irrigation facilities, and contribute positively to agricultural productivity in the region.

END/SMA/AJ