ADB to assist BD in low-cost river cleaning projects
City Desk :
Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has announced that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide significant support for low-cost river cleaning projects targeting the Buriganga, Turag, and Balu rivers.
The ADB’s assistance will also extend to the execution of Bangladesh’s action-oriented climate plans, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).
The announcement came during a meeting with Edimon Ginting, ADB’s country director, held at the Bangladesh Secretariat on Tuesday.
Rizwana Hasan emphasized the critical role of the private sector and youth in environmental protection and underscored the need for capacity building.
She requested ADB’s support in establishing a training institute for officials from the Department of Environment (DoE).
Expressing gratitude for ADB’s ongoing support, Rizwana Hasan highlighted the importance of continued collaboration to enhance Bangladesh’s climate resilience and promote sustainable development.
She stressed the need for innovative approaches and financing mechanisms to effectively address environmental challenges.
In response, Edimon Ginting reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to aiding Bangladesh in achieving its environmental and climate objectives.
He announced that ADB will employ AI technology in the river cleaning initiatives and outlined plans for expanding their efforts in the country.
Ginting also extended an invitation for Rizwana Hasan to speak at the High-level Session of the Climate Adaptation Investment Planning Forum (CAIP2024), scheduled for September 17-18, 2024, at ADB Headquarters in Manila, Philippines.
The meeting, which also included Environment Secretary Dr Farhina Ahmed and senior officials from both the ministry and ADB, concluded with a renewed commitment to partnership in advancing environmental sustainability and climate resilience in Bangladesh.