PM Vows Strong, Prosperous Bangladesh at Canal Launch

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today spoke at a public rally on the bank of Sahapara Canal in the Balrampur area after inaugurating the nationwide programme to excavate and re-excavate rivers, canals.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday pledged to build a strong and prosperous Bangladesh with the support of its people, saying the government has begun a new phase of nation-building through a nationwide canal restoration programme.

Addressing a public rally near the Sahapara canal in Kaharol upazila of Dinajpur District, Rahman said the canal excavation and re-excavation initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s economy, agriculture and water management.

“We have begun nation-building work through this canal restoration programme,” he said. “Our goal is to create a Bangladesh where people can exercise their rights and where the country stands strong both economically and politically.”

He emphasised that the people of Bangladesh are the true owners of the country and that their participation and support are essential for development.

“Many of you have relatives living abroad. When you talk to them, they often describe how beautiful and developed those countries are,” the prime minister said. “But those nations were built by their own people. If they could achieve it, why can’t we? With determination and unity, we can do the same.”

Rahman recalled the sacrifices of those who fought for the country’s independence during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 and praised the role of students in the 2024 mass uprising that brought political change.

He also referred to development initiatives undertaken during the tenure of Ziaur Rahman, saying efforts such as irrigation expansion and canal digging significantly increased food production at the time.

“It was the people of this country who achieved those successes,” he said. “If they could do it then, we can certainly build the Bangladesh of the future.”

Rahman urged citizens to remain vigilant against those who attempt to create instability or spread misleading narratives.

“We must stay alert against anyone who tries to create disorder through false promises or confusing statements,” he said. “Sweet words should not mislead the people.”

He said the government’s policies are focused on supporting farmers, empowering women, improving healthcare, strengthening education for future generations and creating employment opportunities in both agriculture and industry.

“But this work cannot be done by the government alone,” he added. “With the people’s support, every plan can succeed.”

Earlier in the day, the prime minister formally launched the nationwide canal excavation and re-excavation programme by cutting soil with a spade at the Sahapara canal. The initiative covers 54 districts across the country, including the canal in Balrampur area of Kaharol upazila.

After arriving at the canal bank, Rahman reviewed a map of the waterway before symbolically beginning the excavation work. He later planted a tree sapling along the canal bank.

The canal restoration programme is part of a broader development agenda that also includes social welfare initiatives such as the Family Card programme introduced earlier by the government.