Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has underscored the importance of modern and effective water management for safeguarding public health, protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable urban development.
Speaking during a visit to the under-construction Gandharbapur Water Treatment Plant in Rupganj, Narayanganj, on Monday, the minister said access to safe and reliable water is a fundamental requirement for improving the quality of life of urban residents. He stressed that authorities must carry out their responsibilities with professionalism, accountability and efficiency to deliver high-quality services to the public.
Fakhrul, who is also the Secretary General of BNP, highlighted the need to increase the use of surface water as a long-term solution to Dhaka’s persistent water supply challenges. He said excessive dependence on groundwater has placed significant pressure on underground water reserves and that a gradual shift toward surface water is essential for sustainable resource management.
According to the minister, expanding the use of surface water will not only help preserve groundwater resources but also contribute to maintaining ecological balance and strengthening water security for future generations. He noted that sustainable water management has become increasingly important in the face of rapid urbanisation, population growth and the growing impacts of climate change.
During the visit, Fakhrul inspected the progress of the Gandharbapur Water Treatment Plant, a major infrastructure project being implemented by Dhaka WASA under the Dhaka Environmentally Sustainable Water Supply Project. He reviewed construction activities, discussed implementation challenges with officials and assessed measures being taken to ensure the project's timely completion.
The minister directed the authorities concerned to complete the remaining work within the next year so that the benefits of the project can be delivered to city residents as soon as possible. He also emphasized maintaining construction quality and operational standards to ensure the long-term effectiveness of the facility.
An exchange-of-views meeting was held following the inspection, where officials briefed the minister on the project's current progress, future implementation plans and ongoing initiatives aimed at improving water supply services in the capital.
Senior officials, including the Secretary of the Local Government Division, the Managing Director of Dhaka WASA and officials of the Gandharbapur Water Treatment Plant, attended the meeting.
Once fully operational, the project is expected to significantly enhance Dhaka’s water supply capacity. The first phase of the plant will provide 500 million litres of treated water per day to the capital, while the second phase will add another 500 million litres daily, strengthening the city's ability to meet growing water demand and ensuring a more sustainable and resilient water supply system.
