Govt working to address drinking water crisis in coastal areas: State Minister

State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam has said the government has been working to solve the long-standing drinking water crisis in the coastal region as per the promise of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. “The government has been working sincerely. Improving the quality of life of the people of the coastal region by ensuring safe water, health and sanitation is one of the government's priorities,” he said while speaking as the chief guest at the distribution programme of 215 rainwater conservation tanks. 

Initiated by the World Vision Bangladesh, Rampal, the tanks were distributed among the people during the event held at the Dakra Multipurpose Secondary School ground in Rampal upazila of Bagerhat this afternoon. World Vision Rampal ADP Senior Manager Phuli Begum chaired the event. 

The state minister said the crisis of safe drinking water is evident in the coastal areas due to salinity. As per the government's promise, various programmes are being implemented to resolve this crisis as the biggest problem of the people of this region is the availability of safe water, he added. The state minister said, “It may not be possible to solve all your problems at once. However, I will continue to work for the development of the area and the welfare of the people by standing by your side.”

BNP leader Tarafdar Enamul Haque Prince also spoke at the event. Local dignitaries, people from different classes and professions and beneficiaries were also present. Later, the state minister planted a fruit tree sapling in the school premises.