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DHAKA, Sept 28, 2025 (BSS) – Senior Secretary of the Land Ministry ASM Saleh Ahmed today said water bodies are under threat due to encroachment, pollution, unplanned development, and over-extraction.

“Water reservoirs are not merely water bodies . . . They are making multifaceted contributions to the country’s economy, food security, environment, and social life as well,” he told a workshop at the Land Ministry’s conference room.

The workshop was organized this afternoon to finalize the draft of the ordinance titled “Government Water Bodies Ordinance, 2025.”

Speaking on the occasion, ASM Saleh Ahmed called upon all concerned to work together for the proper use, conservation, and development of water bodies.

The water bodies (rivers, canals, beels, haors, baors, and various other types of water bodies) are an important part of Bangladesh's natural resources and biodiversity. These are not only a source of fish production and livelihood; they also contribute greatly to environmental balance, shipping, agriculture, and water supply, he mentioned.

Land Reforms Board Chairman (Secretary) AJM Salahuddin Nagri, Land Appeal Board Chairman (Secretary) Dr Mahmud Hasan, Director General of the Department of Land Records and Survey Md Saidur Rahman, the ministry’s additional secretaries concerned, and other senior officials of the Land Ministry, among others, were present.