Experts urge maximum use of surface water

Experts at a workshop yesterday emphasised the need for creating awareness to ensure proper management and maximum use of surface water in a bid to reduce pressure on underground water.

They came up with the observation at a workshop organised by the Water Resources Planning Organization (Warpo) with assistance from Development Association for Self-reliance, Communication and Health (DASCOH) on Bangladesh Water Rules, 2017 (Draft) for implementation of Bangladesh Water Act, 2013.

Divisional Commissioner Kazi Hasan Ahmed attended the workshop as the chief guest with Additional Divisional Commissioner Minu Shill in the chair.

Director General of Warpo Khondker Khalequzzaman and Joint Chief of the Ministry of Water Resources Mantu Kumar Biswas addressed the workshop as special guests.

Director of Warpo Feroz Alam discussed steps taken since 1999 in formulating Bangladesh Water Act, 2013 and Water Rules (Draft) to ensure better management of water resources.

Project Director of Warpo Eng Rezaul Karim said severe water crisis can hit Bangladesh in future if unabated extracting of underground water continues.

“The media can play a vital role in presenting the water situation to create awareness for proper implementation of Bangladesh Water Act, 2013, and in ensuring better management and use of water resources,” he said.

Joint Chief of the Ministry of Water Resources Mantu Kumar Biswas said pressure on underground water is increasing.

“We have to attain sustainable development goals considering all aspects regarding use and management of water and misuse of the most precious natural resources,” he said.

He called upon the media to play the due role in reducing pressure on underground water.