Encroachers must give up grabbed rivers, canals: Fisheries minister

Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid has warned those who have illegally occupied rivers and canals to be cautious and give up what they had taken.

“Whoever you are, not more powerful than the government and the 18 crore people of the country,” he warned.

Amin, also the agriculture minister, gave the warning to the encroachers today (16 March) while speaking to reporters after inaugurating a canal excavation of the Dakatia River in Lalmai upazila of Cumilla.

Earlier, at a discussion session in the same area, the minister said, “The Dakatia has been encroached upon. Land has been filled in and houses have been built illegally. This river will be restored.”

Speaking at the discussion session, he said, “Before elections, many people make many promises, but they do not follow through. However, the BNP has proven that we match words with actions. We have already started the family card programme. Farmer’s card will be launched soon.”

“As committed by the party leader, we have also started a canal excavation programme today. Agricultural loans have been waived. Payments to imams and muezzins have already begun. Within a month, the government started implementing the initiatives,” he added.

“Opportunities have been created to improve the lives of the people. Seventy percent of the country’s population is involved in agriculture. If the economic condition of 70% of people improves, the remaining 30% will automatically benefit.”