Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam. File Photo

GAZIPUR, March 16, 2026 (BSS) - Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam, MP, today inaugurated the re-excavation, beautification and environmental conservation works of the Gacha canal here in the district.

Mahbub Anam also the minister of the Ministry of Science and Technology attended the inauguration ceremony as the chief guest at a function held at Nimtoli Balur Math under Ward No. 47 of Gazipur City Corporation, said a press release.

The initiative forms part of the government's nationwide programme for canal excavation and re-excavation, undertaken in line with the election manifesto of the present government. 

Speaking on the occasion, the minister said canal re-excavation is very important for environmental protection and agricultural development of the country. 

He said that under the directive of the Prime Minister, canal excavation programmes are being implemented in around 54 districts across the country, an initiative that was once started by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and later revived by Begum Khaleda Zia.

The minister said Gazipur has now become an important area and therefore encroachment and pollution of canals and rivers must be stopped to ensure normal water flow.

He laid emphasis on raising awareness among people to protect the environment. 

Fakir Mahbub Anam also urged industries to install Effluent Treatment Plants (ETP) to ensure proper waste management.

Mentioning that excavation alone is not enough, he said importance must also be given to regular maintenance, afforestation and creating tourism potential around the canals. For this, he said, joint efforts of the local administration, public representatives and people are needed.

The minister called upon the administration, public representatives and local people to work together for successful implementation of the programme and reiterated the government's commitment to the welfare of the country and its people.

Speaking as special guest, Member of Parliament of Gazipur-2 constituency M Manzurul Karim Rony said the re-excavation of the important Gacha canal in the Tongi-Gacha area of Gazipur would play a vital role in resolving waterlogging and improving agriculture. 

He said the government has initiated a programme to re-excavate about 20,000 kilometres of canals across the country to protect agriculture and the environment.

He also said the administration would take measures to prevent encroachment and pollution of canals, and tree plantation programmes would be implemented along both sides of the canal. 

He urged people to remain aware to protect canals and the environment.

After the inauguration, the minister planted saplings along the bank of the canal.

Officials concerned were present at the event.