20,000 km of canals to be excavated, 2cr trees to be planted in 5yrs: Faridul

State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shaikh Faridul Islam said that the government will excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals and plant 25 crore trees across the country over the next five years under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The state minister made the announcement while inaugurating a canal re-excavation programme at Saheber Meth village under Mithakhali union in Rampal upazila on Saturday.

He said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman had initiated canal excavation programmes to promote rural development and revitalise agriculture, noting that his vision remains relevant. He urged all to refrain from injustice and violence and to work towards building a safe and livable country for future generations.

Re-excavation of four canals, including one adjacent to Madurpalta Bazar Bridge in Mongla upazila, covering 8.34 kilometres, is underway at a cost of Taka 59.67 lakh. The project is being implemented by the Center for Natural Resource Studies with financial support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom and is scheduled to be completed by March 25.