Speakers including politicians, researchers and activists on Saturday urged the adoption of a people-oriented river management framework that balances ecological preservation with economic productivity by treating the river as a living ecosystem that sustains human livelihoods.
They emphasised the need for integrated initiatives involving the government, experts, and activists regarding the Padma and Teesta barrage projects.
They made the call at an event organised by the National and Global Oceanic and Riverine Resources Trust at the National Press Club in the capital. Marking National River Day on May 23, the event aimed to raise awareness for safe river transport and the preservation of the country’s river channels.
Writer and researcher Sheikh Rokon presented the key note paper at the event while water resources minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee was present as the chief guest, and lawmaker Anisur Rahman attended as the special guest. The event was chaired by NONGOR Chairman Shuman Shams.
Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee said that the government is constantly working on the Ganga treaty, adding that his ministry is in discussions with Teesta master plan experts.
‘Twenty-four districts are being affected by the Farakka Barrage, but the government is increasing river channel capacity through dredging,’ he said, adding that the opposition party must also cooperate with the government’s activities.
Anisur Rahman stated that the government is currently working on canal excavation and river protection programs.
‘I request the government to adopt canal and river rescue initiatives because we can build a bridge, but we cannot build a river,’ Rahman said, adding that the government should implement coordinated actions to protect rivers based on the advice of experts and activists.
Suman Shams urged the government to declare May 23 as National River Day, announcing that NONGOR plans to conduct a river survey to protect the country’s waterbodies.
He added that the organisation observed the day to advocate for safe water transport by commemorating the tragic launch accident of the MV Lighting Sun in Chandpur on May 23, 2004.
