Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday inaugurated the rehabilitation work of the 1,542-crore taka Muhuri-Kohua Flood Control, Drainage and Irrigation Project, aimed at addressing the longstanding flooding and waterlogging problems in Feni.
He formally inaugurated the first phase of the project at 2:18pm at the Kheya Ghat area near the Muhuri Bridge in Parshuram upazila.
It was Tarique’s first official visit to Feni since taking office. The project is aimed at modernising flood control, drainage and irrigation systems centred on the Muhuri and Kohua rivers.
Officials concerned expect the project to reduce flooding, improve agricultural and irrigation facilities and help protect the lives and property of people living along the riverbanks.
Approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), the project involves the rehabilitation of around 68 kilometres of flood-control embankments, re-excavation of 83.5 kilometres of rivers and protection of more than 11.5 kilometres of riverbanks. It also includes the construction of a hydraulic elevated dam.
The project carries historical significance as construction of Feni’s 122-kilometre main embankment began during the first tenure of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
The modernisation and expansion of the project are expected to address longstanding demands from residents of flood-prone Parshuram, Fulgazi and adjoining areas for durable embankments, improved drainage and modern irrigation facilities.
The Prime Minister’s itinerary also includes programmes on social protection, environmental conservation and agricultural support, alongside infrastructure development.
Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister and Feni-3 MP Abdul Awal Mintoo, and State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad were present at the programme.
Feni-1 MP Munshi Rafiqul Alam Maznu, Feni-2 MP Prof Zainal Abedin (VP Zainal), Khagrachhari MP Abdul Wadud Bhuiyan, reserved women’s seat MP Rehana Akhter Ranu, and leaders and activists of various affiliated organisations were also present.