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Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has directed officials to ensure uninterrupted river water flow in the planning of development projects, emphasizing that no development should harm the environment. He issued these directives during a meeting on the ‘Teknaf to Tetulia Integrated Economic Corridor Development’ project held at the state guest house Jamuna on Wednesday (18 June).
During the meeting, the Country Director of the Asian Development Bank, Ho Yun Jong, and officials from the Economic Relations Division (ERD) presented the project’s vision, strategy, and implementation process. The meeting was attended by Road Transport and Bridges Adviser Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs Lutfe Siddiqui, SDG Chief Coordinator Lamiya Morshed, and Chief Secretary Siraj Uddin Miah.
The Chief Adviser emphasized three key points:
- Preserving River Flow: Stating that Bangladesh is a riverine delta, he stressed that water flow must not be obstructed under any circumstances.
- Considering Population and Flood Risks: Development projects must account for local population dynamics and flood vulnerabilities. Infrastructure like bridges and roads should serve as safe shelters during floods, not exacerbate risks.
- Regional Connectivity: The project should facilitate connectivity with neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan, transforming the region into an investment hub.
He instructed the inclusion of water experts in the project and the development of a masterplan. Road Transport and Bridges Adviser Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan noted that past road construction in the Haor region disrupted ecosystems, leading to severe flooding. He emphasized that environmental considerations must guide all future projects.
AI/MR
