Canal Excavation: A New Momentum for Rural Economy

Our country is called riverine not just for the number of rivers; rather, it is the vast network of rivers, canals, wetlands, and waterways that has, for centuries, formed the foundation of agriculture, settlements, and economic activities.

At one time, almost every locality in rural Bangladesh was connected to one or another canal or waterway.

These canals were the lifeblood of agriculture, means of communication, and natural drainage routes.

But over time, due to neglect, filling, encroachment, and unplanned development, countless canals in the country have disappeared or become nearly dead.

As a result, waterlogging has increased, irrigation opportunities have decreased, and in many cases, agricultural production has been affected.

Amid this reality, the importance of canal excavation or re-excavation programs has once again come to the fore.

After being inactive for a long time, this program has resumed, and if implemented, it will fulfill a long-standing demand of the people.

In particular, canal re-excavation will help reduce waterlogging, increase irrigation facilities, and enhance agricultural production.

Canal excavation programs in Bangladesh have a historical context.

After independence, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman turned canal excavation into a mass movement as part of rural development.

His aim was to increase agricultural production, create rural employment, and lead the country toward self-reliance.

During that time, canal excavation had a positive impact on agriculture in many areas.

However, over time, the continuity of that initiative was lost. Many canals were filled, others became victims of encroachment, and in many cases, they almost disappeared from official records.

As a result, in many regions of Bangladesh today, waterlogging during the rainy season has become a major problem.

With no proper drainage, agricultural land remains submerged for long periods, resulting in crop loss and significant financial loss for farmers.

On the other hand, during dry seasons, insufficient water leads to irrigation shortages.

In other words, farmers face a dual challenge of excessive water at some times and scarcity at others.

Canal re-excavation could be an effective solution to this problem. If the canals are properly restored, rainwater will drain quickly, and at the same time, that water can be stored for irrigation during dry seasons.

This will increase agricultural production and bring new momentum to the rural economy.

However, the success of canal excavation programs does not depend solely on the excavation work; it requires long-term planning and coordinated management.

In the past, it has been observed that within a few years of excavation, many canals were again filled or encroached upon. As a result, the benefits of the project were not sustainable.

Learning from this experience, canal restoration must now be viewed as part of an integrated water management system.

Bangladesh’s geographical reality includes a natural network of water flow.

From rivers to canals, and from canals to wetlands or lowlands, water moves in a continuous flow.

If canals are reconnected to this natural flow, it will be highly beneficial not only for agriculture but also for the environment.

If implemented systematically, the canal excavation program will not only alleviate waterlogging but also revitalize agriculture, the environment, and the rural economy.

If the country’s lost canals come back to life, they will not only restore water flow but also open new horizons for overall national development.

Many countries around the world have revolutionized agriculture through advanced water management.

The Netherlands is a prime example. Despite being below sea level, the country has become a global leader in agricultural production through advanced canal and water control systems.

Similarly, Vietnam and Thailand have strengthened agriculture through canal and irrigation system development. These experiences are very relevant for Bangladesh.

Another important aspect of canal re-excavation is maintaining environmental balance. Canals are not just waterways; they are part of a rich ecosystem.

Regular water flow in canals keeps surrounding groundwater levels stable, which is critical for agriculture and biodiversity. Additionally, canals can hold excess rainwater and reduce the risk of floods.

In the context of climate change, these natural waterways play an important role in risk mitigation.

State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad has stated that approximately 20,000 kilometers of canal excavation are planned over the next five years.

If successfully implemented, this plan could become a major milestone in Bangladesh’s water management history.

It will not only enhance food self-sufficiency but also increase agricultural production and create potential for future food exports.

However, the success of this program will largely depend on administrative efficiency, transparency, and the participation of local communities.

If local farmers, elected representatives, and social organizations are actively involved in the canal restoration projects, a sense of ownership among people will develop, making the initiative sustainable in the long term.

There is no doubt about this.
The canal re-excavation in the Sahapara area of Dinajpur, where this program has already begun, is therefore not just a local development project; it represents a larger national initiative.

If successful, this initiative could bring positive changes to agriculture and rural life in many parts of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh today faces a new economic reality. Rapidly growing population, risks from climate change, and challenges of food security have created a complex situation for the country.

In this context, the proper use of natural resources and sustainable water management are extremely important.

If the canal excavation program is implemented as planned, it will not only reduce waterlogging but also revitalize agriculture, the environment, and the rural economy.

If the lost canals of Bangladesh come alive again, they will not only restore water flow but also open new horizons for the country’s overall development.

(Author: Journalist, Columnist & Political Analyst, Dhaka Email:[email protected])