Photo : BSS

BAGERHAT, July 25, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam today said water tanks will be distributed among coastal households in phases to help conserve rainwater and ensure safe drinking water in the region.

He also said government ponds will be excavated, renovated and developed as freshwater reservoirs so that coastal communities can have access to safe drinking water.

The state minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a water tank distribution programme at Rampal Upazila in Bagerhat on Friday.

He said people in coastal Rampal and Mongla areas have been facing an acute drinking water crisis for a long time.

"To address this crisis, 3,000 water tanks are being distributed initially under the Climate Trust Fund," he said, adding that 82 tanks were handed over today as part of the initiative.

Faridul said most water sources in the coastal region are saline, while water from many tube wells is also unsuitable for use. "Conserving rainwater is one of the most effective ways to provide safe drinking water, and that is why water tanks are being provided to families," he added.

The state minister said the government is working on a permanent solution to ensure safe water supply for coastal people.

He said government ponds will be restored and transformed into freshwater reservoirs. "Fish farming will not be allowed in these ponds so that people can use them as sources of safe drinking water," he added.

Faridul said the government is implementing various projects to improve the quality of life of coastal communities and tackle the impacts of climate change.

At the programme in Rampal, iron sheets, cash assistance, food items and rainwater storage tanks were distributed among poor families in the presence of State Minister Shaikh Faridul Islam.