Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie said Binna grass could offer an effective, environmentally friendly and low-cost natural solution to river erosion, land degradation and soil loss. He made the remarks on Sunday at a meeting on the Binna Grass Policy for Bangladesh at Water Bhaban in Panthapath, Dhaka. State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad was present.

The minister said the grass’s roots penetrate deep into the soil and hold it firmly, helping reduce erosion caused by rainwater, waves and currents. He said planned planting along riverbanks, canal banks, embankment slopes, haor areas and erosion-prone locations could improve soil stability. Its use in such areas could also support environmental balance and increase infrastructure durability.

Annie called for wider use of Binna grass to protect soil on riverbanks and embankments. He said the ministry is prioritising sustainable and environmentally friendly initiatives to conserve rivers, canals, embankments and reservoirs. Azad said climate change is increasing risks from floods, river erosion, heavy rainfall and land degradation, and that nature-based solutions should be considered alongside concrete infrastructure. BUET Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Shariful Islam presented on the grass’s benefits and potential.