Rangpur: Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives and Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan has emphasized the need for diplomatic pressure to ensure India signs the Teesta water sharing agreement. Speaking as a special guest at a public hearing titled ‘What to do about the Teesta,’ organized by the Rangpur district administration, he stated that the interim government intends to engage with India confidently and assertively to secure a fair share of the Teesta river water.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Asif Mahmud criticized the previous government’s approach, describing it as lacking in effective foreign policy measures. He remarked that the past administration focused on maintaining cordial relations with India without addressing the crucial issue of water sharing. Asif Mahmud assured that the interim government is committed to addressing the development needs of North Bengal, including special allocations for communication infrastructure and agricultural industry support.
He highlighted the agricultural potential of North Bengal and the challenges faced by farmers due to inadequate preservation facilities. The interim government is reportedly exploring feasibility studies for establishing cold storage facilities to ensure fair pricing for crops. Additionally, efforts are underway to improve literacy rates in erosion-prone riverine char areas through the establishment of modern libraries.
Asif Mahmud also mentioned progress on infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a connecting bridge from Pirgachha to Chilmari, which will significantly enhance the region’s communication system. During the public hearing, local residents expressed concerns over the erosion of the Teesta river, emphasizing the urgency of implementing effective solutions.
Environmental and water resources experts, including Syeda Rizwana Hasan, highlighted the ongoing Teesta Master Plan revisions, with an expected finalization by December. The plan involves consulting with local communities to ensure its sustainability. Rizwana Hasan also stressed the importance of timely communication from India regarding dam operations during floods to minimize potential damage.
The event saw participation from Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rabiul Faisal, Water Resources Ministry officials, and various researchers and community leaders, who collectively underscored the significance of addressing the Teesta river’s challenges for the welfare of the affected regions.