Rajshahi, Nov 02 (V7N) – The Government of Bangladesh has officially declared several areas in the northwest and Chattogram as water-stressed zones to protect underground water levels and ensure sustainable water management. The declaration follows surveys and investigations conducted by the Water Resources Planning Organization (WARPO) under the Ministry of Water Resources.
 
According to the notification, 25 upazilas in the Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, and Naogaon districts of the northwest hydrological region have been identified as water-stressed. Among these, 47 unions are categorized as “extremely high water-stressed,” 40 unions as “high water-stressed,” and 66 unions as “moderate water-stressed.”
 
In Chattogram, Potia Upazila has been included due to water scarcity. Within Potia municipality, 5 mouzas are designated as extremely high water-stressed and 3 mouzas as high water-stressed. Additionally, among the upazila’s unions, 7 mouzas in 3 unions are extremely high water-stressed, 27 mouzas in 9 unions are high water-stressed, and 30 mouzas in 8 unions are categorized as moderate water-stressed.
 
The government has issued strict directives to ensure the balanced use and conservation of water resources in these areas. No new tube wells or underground water extraction for purposes other than drinking water is allowed. Existing tube wells cannot be used for agriculture, industry, or any non-potable purpose.
 
Establishing water-dependent industries in these regions is prohibited. Changing the classification or filling of natural water bodies such as rivers, canals, wetlands, and ponds is banned. These water bodies must remain accessible to the public, and leasing of khas water bodies is strongly discouraged.
 
The notification also emphasizes maintaining natural water flows and encouraging the cultivation of water-efficient crops over water-intensive crops, which is expected to help restore groundwater levels and balance water usage.
 
Experts have welcomed the government’s initiative, noting that excessive tube wells in Rajshahi and the northern region have been lowering underground water levels each year, posing significant risks to agriculture, the environment, and daily life.
 
The notification warns that any violation of these directives will be considered a punishable offense under Section 29 of the Bangladesh Water Act, 2023, and individuals or institutions found guilty will face legal accountability.
 
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