Bangladesh, despite being known as the land of rivers, has unfortunately lost its way when it comes to protecting its waterways.
Despite the rivers, canals, and other water bodies that are the lifelines of the country -- these provide drinking water, irrigation, transport, and fishing opportunities to millions of people -- we have failed to register their importance and thus, these waterways are under threat due to pollution and encroachment.
The indiscriminate disposal of industrial and domestic waste poses a severe threat to the health and well-being of people who depend on these waterways.
And the encroachment of waterways by illegal settlements and industries disrupts the natural flow of water and destroys the ecosystem, leading to flooding during the monsoon season, causing untold damage.
To say the consequences of continued neglect of these waterways could be disastrous would be an understatement; their importance cannot be stated enough.
In particular, as Bangladesh approaches the monsoon season, it is essential to prioritize our cleaning canals and waterways. The accumulation of waste and debris in canals often leads to blockages, causing water to overflow and flood the nearby areas. Cleaning canals before the monsoon season will ensure that water flows smoothly and reduces the risk of flooding.
Year after year, despite our never ending water-logging problems, we fail to act proactively with regard to our canals. Despite numerous initiatives and projects planned, unfortunately, they fall prey to our usual issues of delays and disregard -- and it is the everyday people who continue to suffer.
It is imperative that the authorities concerned work together to ensure that our waterways can once again be clean and safe. Cleaning canals before the monsoon season is just one of the many steps that need to be taken to protect these essential resources. Let us ensure that Bangladesh's waterways remain a source of life and prosperity for generations to come.
