Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced on March 16, 2026, the launch of an extensive canal excavation initiative aimed at revitalizing Bangladesh’s agriculture and rural economy. The project, inaugurated at the Bamansundar canal in Mirsarai Upazila, Chittagong, is a key component of a nationwide strategy to excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals.
The initiative, driven by the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC), is designed to unfold in phases, with an immediate goal of completing 1,200 kilometers within six months. Minister Khasru emphasized the transformative potential of these projects, noting that the Bamansundar canal’s completion would bring 15,000 hectares of land under cultivation and increase food production by approximately 5,000 tons.
Addressing the persistent issue of illegal encroachment, the minister assured that strict measures would be enforced to protect government-owned canals. The demarcation of canal boundaries has commenced, ensuring that excavation proceeds within legal limits.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to improve the standard of living in rural areas, akin to social safety net programs such as agriculture and family cards. The inauguration was overseen by the Chittagong deputy commissioner, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 17, 2026
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