By Subir Kumar Sarker, from Manikgonj
World Water day was observed in Manikganj recently with a call to ensure water rights for the Joynagar Agroecology Learning Center and surrounding communities.
To observe the world water day a public consultation was held in the low-lying areas of Joynagar–Balirteck and Helachia, organized by local farmers’ groups, Green Coalition, and community people with support from BARCIK.
Speakers at the event highlighted that water is a fundamental right and stressed the need to prevent wastage, conserve rainwater, reduce groundwater extraction, and restore rivers, canals, and wetlands. They warned that water scarcity is worsening due to climate change, encroachment of water bodies, and overuse of underground water, especially during the dry season.
Participants said that preserving traditional deepwater Buna Aman rice cultivation through proper water management for future generations and called on government and non-government organizations to take urgent action.
The meeting was chaired by Dipali Rani Biswas and where farmers, local communities, researchers, and community members participated.
