PM to inaugurate Ulashi canal project in Jessore

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is set to visit Jessore on April 27 to inaugurate the re-excavation of the historic Ulashi–Jadunathpur canal, a project linked to the legacy of martyred President Ziaur Rahman.

The visit was confirmed on Tuesday (April 7) by Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister and Jessore-3 MP Anindya Islam Amit.

The canal, neglected for years and now largely silted up, has long been a demand of local residents. During the visit, the Prime Minister is also expected to inaugurate several development projects, including laying the foundation stone of a 500-bed Jessore Medical College Hospital. He will address a public gathering at the city’s central Eidgah ground.

The Ulashi canal, about four kilometres long, originates from the Betna River junction in Sharsha Upazila. It was first excavated in 1976 under the direct initiative of President Ziaur Rahman, who personally inaugurated the work. Locally known as “Zia Canal,” it played a key role in improving agricultural irrigation at the time.

The canal was officially completed and reopened on April 30, 1977. It later became a model for community-based canal excavation projects across Bangladesh. However, years of neglect have left it clogged with silt, reducing water flow and affecting farming, especially during the dry season.

Ahead of the 13th National Parliament election on February 2, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman pledged to re-excavate thousands of canals nationwide, including this one, to support agriculture. The upcoming visit is seen as part of fulfilling that commitment.

Jessore District BNP President Syed Saberul Haque Sabu said there is strong enthusiasm among party leaders, activists, and residents over the Prime Minister’s visit. Preparations are already underway by the district administration.

According to Water Development Board Executive Engineer Palash Kumar Banerjee, a proposal costing Tk 1.37 crore has been submitted for the canal’s re-excavation.

Jessore Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ashek Hasan Ulashi visited the canal site on April 2 to review preparations. He instructed officials to complete the work on time while maintaining quality, so the canal can help reduce waterlogging and support agriculture before the monsoon season.