SANGSAD BHABAN : Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today told Parliament that the government has undertaken a comprehensive short, medium and long-term action plan to address the chronic waterlogging problem in the capital.

Replying to a tabled written question from ruling party lawmaker Md. Abul Kalam (Cumilla-9) in the House, he said Dhaka’s drainage crisis has been aggravated by the loss of rivers, canals and water bodies over the years. The day’s sitting began with Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, in the chair.

Under the short-term programme, the minister said, “Silt and waste are being removed from drains, box culverts and canals, while rainwater is being discharged through existing pump stations.”

He added, “Portable pumps are being used to remove accumulated rainwater from waterlogging-prone areas during heavy rainfall, and additional catchpits and iron gratings are being installed to improve drainage.”

Highlighting emergency preparedness measures, Mirza Fakhrul said, “Ward-based emergency response teams have been formed and the government are taking immediate action to address waterlogging, while blockages obstructing water flow are also being removed.”

The minister said public awareness programmes are also being carried out to prevent waste disposal into drainage channels.
On medium-term initiatives, he informed the House that four major canals are currently being developed under a canal restoration, rehabilitation and beautification project.

“Construction of cannel is underway to discharge water from Zia Sarani Canal and Shyampur Canal into the nearby Buriganga River,” he said.

He further noted, “New drains are being constructed and existing drainage infrastructures are being repaired and renovated to improve the overall water discharge system.”

Regarding long-term plans, Mirza Fakhrul said the government has adopted an extensive programme to modernise Dhaka’s drainage network.

“Plans have been taken to develop approximately 50 kilometres of canals, including Zia Sarani Canal, Kajla Canal and Mridhabari Canal, along with other waterways,” he told Parliament.
The minister also said, “Drainage systems and road infrastructure will be improved in 18 newly incorporated wards to mitigate waterlogging in those areas.”

Referring to the Dhaka South City Corporation area, he said, “Under the drainage master plan for 57 wards, additional outlets and pump stations will be constructed to ensure the rapid discharge of rainwater.”
Mirza Fakhrul further said the government plans to evaluate the capacity of existing drainage facilities and undertake necessary upgrades to increase water flow.

“Plans have also been adopted to construct utility ducts for electricity, gas, water supply and internet services, while a sustainable and modern solid waste management system will be developed to support long-term drainage improvement and urban resilience,” he added.