Bangladesh Government Initiates Formal Steps to Implement the Long-Awaited Teesta Mega Plan

The Bangladesh government has initiated formal steps to implement the long-awaited Teesta Mega Plan, fulfilling a key electoral commitment to address the economic and environmental challenges of millions of people in the northern region. As part of a targeted strategy, the Ministry of Water Resources has submitted a feasibility study proposal worth approximately 230 million BDT to the Planning Commission to assess technical and economic viability before starting major works.

Once approved by the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, world-class consultancy firms will be selected through international competitive bidding to ensure transparent and sustainable execution. The mega project aims to provide a long-term solution to chronic flooding and river erosion in the northern districts, transforming the northwest into a major economic growth driver.

Key priorities outlined in the proposed master plan include:

• Protecting 110 kilometers of riverbanks alongside the construction and renovation of 67 groynes or spurs.

• Dredging 110 kilometers of the river to restore its navigability and natural water flow.

• Constructing 224 kilometers of robust flood-control embankments topped with paved roads.

• Recovering approximately 170 square kilometers of land through river training to be utilized for agricultural and industrial purposes.

Engineers and experts have emphasized the project’s transformative potential. Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) Director General Engineer Md. Ruhul Amin noted that the integrated plan will enhance regional connectivity and irrigation systems. Water resources experts, including BUET Professor Dr. Md. Ataur Rahman and river expert Mohammad Ejaz, highlighted that precise sediment management, transboundary water flow coordination, and structural safety will be critical to securing long-term benefits.

Water Resources Secretary Dr. A.K.M. Shahabuddin stated that the feasibility study will play a vital role in finalizing components such as barrages, river training, dredging, and water conservation. Planning Division Secretary S.M. Shakil Akhter added that the proposal is being reviewed under top governmental priority to advance swiftly with international expert assistance.

Recently, Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie outlined the government’s resolute roadmap for the Teesta project in the national parliament, lending fresh momentum to the initiative. For generations, districts like Rangpur, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari, Kurigram, and Gaibandha have suffered severely from Teesta’s devastation—facing acute water shortages in the dry season and catastrophic erosion during monsoons. Experts believe successful execution of the Teesta Mega Plan will fundamentally reshape the local standard of living and serve as a landmark milestone for northern economic self-reliance.