Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday inaugurated the re-excavation of the Basia River, aiming to improve irrigation and agricultural output in the region.
The Prime Minister formally launched the work at around 1:20pm by cutting soil with a spade despite unfavourable weather. The river, located in Kashipur Union about seven kilometres from Sylhet City, is connected to the Surma River and has long remained clogged and non-navigable.
Addressing local residents, he recalled that the canal was originally excavated in 1977 under the initiative of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, but gradually became blocked over time. The current project aims to restore its functionality and ensure better water flow.
Highlighting the benefits, the Prime Minister said the re-excavation would directly assist around 80,000 farmers and indirectly benefit another 1,50,000.
He added that improved irrigation could increase crop production by nearly 7,000 metric tonnes along both sides of the canal.
The government also plans to expand similar initiatives nationwide, with canal excavation already underway in about 60 locations across Bangladesh. The Basia canal itself stretches approximately 40 kilometres, of which 23 kilometres will be re-excavated in phases. Authorities expect the work to take two dry seasons to complete, with progress resuming after the monsoon.
In addition to excavation, tree plantation will be carried out along both banks of the canal to protect the structure and provide environmental and community benefits.
The Prime Minister also said that fruit-bearing trees would also be planted for local residents.
Reaffirming his government’s focus on agriculture, he highlighted the introduction of farmer cards, through which growers will receive direct support, including access to loans, fertiliser, seeds, and pesticides. Farmers will also receive an annual financial assistance of Tk2,500 to purchase essential inputs.
He further noted that small agricultural loans have already been waived and reiterated the government’s commitment to improving rural livelihoods, as the majority of Bangladesh’s population resides in villages.
The Prime Minister also spoke about plans to revive closed industries and generate employment opportunities for young people, emphasising a results-oriented approach to governance.
Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee and State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad, among others, were also present at the inaugural ceremony.
