By Gunjon Rema from Netrakona

World Water Day 2025 was observed in Chandradinga, a border village in Kalmakanda upazila of Netrokona, with the theme “Glacier Preservation”, organized by BARCIK. Around 40 local men and women attended the event.

To mark the occasion, a discussion session was held on the water crisis in border areas and its sustainable solutions, moderated by Gunjon Rema and chaired by Jetendra Hajong.

At the event, Subimal Mrong said, “The water crisis is disrupting our agriculture. Modern technology and government support are essential to introduce new irrigation methods. Rainwater harvesting and re-excavation of water bodies are crucial for us.”

Gunjon Rema, BARCIK’s Upazila Coordinator, stated, “This year’s World Water Day theme, ‘Glacier Preservation,’ is vital for our future water security. Due to climate change, glaciers are melting rapidly, which could lead to long-term water shortages. Therefore, effective measures must be taken to combat climate change.”

Speakers recommended several steps to address the water crisis which include: Installing rainwater storage tanks and reservoirs in every village through government and private funding, regular dredging of border-rivers to maintain water flow, special government allocations for re-excavating ponds, canals, and water bodies, strict enforcement of laws against illegal encroachment and pollution of rivers and canals etc.