By Shahinur Rahman, from Singair, Manikganj

On the occasion of International Water Day, a human chain and discussion meeting was held in Dakkhin Baldhara village of Singair Upazila to demand the excavation of the Nurani Ganga River, under the theme “Preserve Natural Water Sources.”

The event was jointly organized by Green Coalition (Manikgonj), Dakkhin Baldhara, Uttar Golaidanga Nurani Ganga, and Char-Mogra Krishak-Krishani organizations with the facilitation support of BARCIK.

The meeting was chaired by Baul farmer Jibon Sarker, a member of Green Coalition, and moderated by BARCIK officer Shahinur Rahman. The speakers of the event included Union Parishad (UP) members Sonela Akter, Hosne Ara, and Akkas Ali, along with Beauty Akter, president of the Krishak-Krishani organization, treasurer Salma Akter, and environmental affairs secretary Mojibur Rahman.

Beauty Akter focusing on the importance of river said, “A river is a natural resource for all, and it is the government’s responsibility to keep it usable. We demand the excavation of the Nurani Ganga River to stop illegal encroachment and pollution.”

UP member Hosne Ara said, “We will prioritize this issue in our Union Parishad monthly meeting and submit a memorandum to the UNO (Upazila Executive Officer), Deputy Commissioner, and Water Development Board to highlight the importance of excavation.”

Jibon Sarker stated, “The river was once a vital water source for agriculture. However, as it has silted up, farmers have been forced to rely more on groundwater, which is harming the environment. Urgent excavation is necessary.”

Local communities urge the government to take swift and effective measures to restore the Nurani Ganga River.