Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to inaugurate the re-excavation of the historic Patli Canal in PMkhali under Cox’s Bazar Sadar upazila on June 14, according to local BNP leaders.
The information was shared by Cox’s Bazar-3 lawmaker and BNP fisheries affairs secretary Lutfor Rahman Kazal through a post on his verified Facebook page.
Kazal wrote that the prime minister was scheduled to formally launch the canal re-excavation project at 10:00 am on June 14.
The announcement has generated discussion among local residents and party activists, particularly in PMkhali and surrounding areas.
According to local accounts, the canal is associated with former president Ziaur Rahman, who reportedly initiated excavation work there in November 1979. Residents said the canal later played an important role in expanding irrigation and agricultural activities in the area.
Local people said that over the years, the canal gradually silted up due to inadequate maintenance, reducing its effectiveness and affecting farmers’ irrigation facilities.
Sources said that the canal, stretching about eight kilometres, underwent re-excavation in 2011. Further excavation work is currently underway as part of a broader water management initiative.
Officials from the district administration recently visited the site to inspect preparations ahead of the planned inauguration ceremony. They reviewed the canal area and identified locations for the event and supporting facilities.
Cox’s Bazar deputy commissioner Md A Mannan said that preparations were being taken in connection with the scheduled programme and that security and logistical arrangements were under consideration.
Earlier, State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad visited the canal area and inspected the ongoing work.
Local residents expressed hope that the project would improve irrigation facilities, reduce waterlogging, and support agricultural production in the surrounding areas.
The government has announced plans to expand canal excavation and re-excavation activities across the country over the coming years as part of efforts to improve water management and agricultural productivity.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Collected
