Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Water Resources, has affirmed that both the Bangladeshi and Chinese governments remain firmly committed to the implementation of the Teesta Mega-Project. She noted, however, that the project has yet to commence because the verification and evaluation processes have not been fully completed. Speaking to journalists on Monday, she emphasised, “Even if work does not begin within January, there is no reason for disappointment. What matters most is that the project is executed thoroughly and flawlessly.”
The remarks came during a field visit to the erosion-prone areas of Teesta at Tepamdhupur, Taluk Shahbazpur in Kaunia Upazila, Rangpur. The inspection was attended by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, District Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan, Professor Dr. Tuhin Wadud, Director of Riverine People, Executive Engineer of the Water Development Board Robiul Islam, as well as Nazrul Islam Hakkani, President of Teesta Banchao Nodi Banchao Sangram Parishad, and Secretary Shafiur Rahman, alongside other officials.
Adviser Rizwana Hasan highlighted that political parties have included pledges for the project in their election manifestos. She added, “Following verification, Chinese experts are ensuring accurate implementation. There will be no errors, and China is eager to begin work as soon as possible.”
She further explained that the project is complex, encompassing flood control, river erosion prevention, and irrigation systems. “Multiple technical and environmental aspects are being carefully analysed,” she said.
Regarding the equitable distribution of Teesta waters, she commented, “This remains an ongoing process and a significant political matter. The elected government will oversee its implementation. We have already completed preliminary preparations concerning both the Ganga and Teesta rivers.”
The key aspects of the Teesta Mega-Project are summarised in the table below:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Type | Flood control, river erosion prevention, irrigation systems |
| Location | Rangpur District, Kaunia Upazila, Tepamdhupur Taluk Shahbazpur |
| Participants | Government representatives of Bangladesh and China, expert teams |
| Current Status | Verification phase, work has not yet started |
| Objectives | Prevent river erosion, ensure fair water distribution, improve irrigation |
| Timeline | Work may not begin within January; aim for meticulous completion |
Earlier on Monday, the team inspected the Teesta road and railway bridge areas in Kaunia Upazila. Robiul Islam, Executive Engineer of Rangpur Water Development Board, briefed them on the river’s dynamics and emerging challenges. Subsequently, Adviser Rizwana Hasan conducted an on-site survey of various sections of the Teesta River by boat.
She concluded on a hopeful note, stating, “The future of the Teesta Mega-Project is promising. The interim government has not abandoned it, and political parties remain committed. Citizens can therefore anticipate its successful implementation without despair.”