Sustainable implementation needed to develop 20 ‘model canals’ in 8 divisions

SINCE assuming office, the government has undertaken essential initiatives such as canal re-excavation.

Now, plans have been adopted to implement special programs designating 20 canals from various regions of the country as ‘model canals’ to ensure their multi-purpose use.

The primary objective of this initiative is to develop the excavated canals into assets that support livelihoods, employment, social forestry, and disaster resilience, rather than limiting their function solely to water retention and drainage.

According a newspaper report, the total length of the 20 canals is nearly 60 kilometers. And around 2,400 families will benefit from this project.

The report indicates that this new plan has been outlined in a draft concept paper by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief.

The core philosophy of the concept paper is “not merely excavating canals, but ensuring the multi-purpose use of excavated canals.”

The aim is to initiate activities such as social forestry, fish and duck farming, seasonal vegetable cultivation along the banks.

It will also help preserve natural water flow, water-retention capacity, ecological balance, and legitimate public use.

Reportedly, this plan, formulated in light of the Prime Minister’s directives, outlines various employment-generating activities for the selected model canals.

According to the preliminary plan, a total of 20 canals have been proposed for the pilot project: three each in the Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Khulna divisions; and two each in the Rangpur, Sylhet, Barishal, and Mymensingh divisions.

The final selection of canals will be made following field-level verification.

The condition of the country’s canals, wetlands, rivers, and waterways is dire.

Many canals and wetlands have vanished over time due to pollution and encroachment. The exact number of canals remains unknown.

Against this backdrop, the government has planned to excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals across the country over the next five years.

Allegedly, due to various irregularities and mismanagement, the full benefits of government projects are not being realized.

Recent reports reveal that 30.943 million taka was withdrawn in Barishal without actually excavating seven canals.

Furthermore, the benefits of the excavation-where it did take place-are not being realized due to a lack of maintenance.

Experts believe that the ‘model canal’ concept could yield positive results in this regard.

We believe that reaping the benefits of the ‘model canal’ concept requires its sustainable implementation. Information must be thoroughly verified.

Accountability must be ensured to prevent irregularities at the field level. At the same time, enhancing administrative efficiency is certainly essential.