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DHAKA, May 10, 2026 (BSS)- Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee has said Corrosion-resistant and climate-resilient coastal infrastructure is crucial for the long-term security and economic development of Bangladesh.
“Building sustainable and safe coastal infrastructure is a demand of the time,” he told a seminar titled “Corrosion-Resistant Coastal Infrastructure in Bangladesh and Unveiling of Project Management Training Manual (Second Edition) and Certificate Awarding” held at Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium in the city.
The minister said, Use of advanced construction materials, climate-resilient design and sustainable engineering practices is essential to safeguard coastal regions from environmental threats.
He noted that due to high population density, various environmental challenges are emerging in coastal areas, including the reduction of agricultural land, increasing number of fishermen, overuse of coastal resources, water pollution and destruction of mangrove forests.
The minister further said that rising sea level are causing coastal erosion and allowing saline water intrusion into inland areas, damaging crops, increasing marine pollution and negatively affecting the coastal ecosystem.
Calling for maximum use of technology in combating coastal erosion, he emphasized integrated planning and sustainable management.
Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee also said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government is revitalizing the canal excavation programme initiated by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
He said that over the next five years, 20,000 kilometres of rivers, canals, ponds and water bodies will be excavated and re-excavated, while 25 crore trees will be planted to create a green belt in coastal areas.
The minister stressed the need for formulation of coastal zone management rules and special management plans to protect the environment in coastal regions. He also called for legislation to safeguard agricultural land, ensure proper use of groundwater and modernize waste management systems.
He said an integrated plan is essential for coastal areas to ensure balanced development of both human settlements and the natural environment.
The event was organized on the occasion of the 78th founding anniversary of Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh.
Chaired by Chairman of Civil Engineering Division of IEB Engineer Muhammad Shafiqul Islam Khokon, it was also addressed by Chairman of IEB and RAJUK Engineer Mohammad Riazul Islam, LGED Chief Engineer Belal Hossain and Professor Dr. Tarek Uddin.
