Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has apologised to the residents of Chattogram for the hardship caused by severe waterlogging, assuring them that efforts are underway to resolve the crisis.
Today, Chattogram-10 MP Sayeed Al Noman raised the issue of waterlogging on a point of order in parliament.
“Waterlogging is Chattogram’s biggest problem. Right now, people are literally floating in water. Ordinary people without proper housing are living with water up to their necks. Many fear this problem will never be solved. I demand measures to eliminate waterlogging in Chattogram,” he said.
In response, PM Tarique said, “There is a severe waterlogging. Naturally, it will take some time to address. For this suffering, I sincerely apologise to all citizens living in Chattogram city. We are trying to resolve this problem as quickly as possible.”
The prime minister said he had also seen media reports yesterday showing large parts of Chattogram submerged and people suffering. He added that the problem is not confined to Chattogram but exists nationwide. Even in Dhaka, many areas experience flooding during rainfall, he said, noting that it is a longstanding issue.
He recalled that former president Ziaur Rahman had once dug canals across Bangladesh to create reservoirs, which helped reduce floods and waterlogging.
“We must return to that approach,” he said, adding that the current government has already taken up such a programme and work has begun.
The prime minister pointed out that canals, drains, and sewers in urban areas are often blocked by plastic, polythene, and bottles dumped carelessly. The government is excavating canals and cleaning drains in various places, including Dhaka, but within 7 to 10 days, waste is again dumped, blocking water flow.
He further emphasised that while the government is taking initiatives and will continue to do so, public awareness is crucial.
“Through building public awareness and managing the use of plastic bottles, polythene, and similar materials, this problem can be significantly reduced. The government is working on this, but it is also the moral responsibility of MPs to raise awareness among people,” he said.
