Mirza Fakhrul stresses modern water management for public health

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stressed the importance of adopting modern and efficient water management practices to safeguard public health and protect the environment, particularly in rapidly growing urban areas.

Speaking during a visit to the under-construction Gandharbapur Water Treatment Plant in Rupganj Upazila of Narayanganj on Monday, the minister said public service agencies must perform their responsibilities with professionalism, transparency and accountability to ensure quality service delivery.

Mirza Fakhrul, who is also the Secretary General of the BNP, highlighted the need to increase the use of surface water as a long-term solution to Dhaka’s persistent water supply challenges. He noted that excessive reliance on groundwater should be gradually reduced to ensure sustainable use of the country’s water resources.

According to the minister, greater utilisation of surface water would help preserve environmental balance and support the conservation of water resources for future generations. He said such measures are essential for building a sustainable water supply system while meeting the growing needs of urban residents.

The Gandharbapur Water Treatment Plant is being developed under the Dhaka Environmentally Sustainable Water Supply Project, implemented by Dhaka WASA. During the visit, Fakhrul reviewed the project's progress and held discussions with officials and staff involved in its implementation.

He instructed the authorities to complete the remaining work within the next year and emphasised the importance of maintaining the project schedule.

Following the inspection, the minister attended a meeting where officials briefed him on ongoing work, future plans and initiatives aimed at improving water supply services. Senior representatives from the Local Government Division, Dhaka WASA and the treatment plant also participated in the discussion.

Once completed, the first phase of the Gandharbapur Water Treatment Plant will supply 50 crore litres of water per day to the capital. The second phase is expected to add another 50 crore litres daily, significantly strengthening Dhaka’s capacity to meet rising water demand through sustainable sources.