Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain inaugurated canal and stream re-excavation works in the city’s South Pahartali area on Wednesday as part of an ongoing initiative to reduce waterlogging, improve the environment, and restore natural water flow. The mayor visited Dhulunia Dhala, Khagria, and Khoshal Shah canals during the launch and urged those occupying canal areas illegally to remove their structures voluntarily, warning that legal measures would follow if they failed to comply.

He noted that slabs and structures built over canals obstruct cleaning operations and said the city authority is identifying such problems to make the canal system clean and functional. Work is being carried out ward by ward to identify causes of waterlogging and implement planned solutions. The mayor added that development plans for 40 canals are being prepared, including deepening, constructing retaining walls, removing illegal encroachments, and building modern walkways.

Dr. Hossain emphasized that protecting the Halda River requires ensuring the natural flow of its connected canals and streams. He called for active participation from residents in monitoring the quality of ongoing excavation and renovation work to build a clean, environmentally friendly, and waterlogging-free Chattogram.