Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday inaugurated the re-excavation work of historic Khorddo Khal (canal) in Shahrasti upazila of Chandpur, 48 years after his late father excavated it.

After travelling by road from Dhaka, the Prime Minister reached the canal re-excavation site at Uyaruk Bazar in Tamta South Union around 2:40pm pm and formally launched the programme by unveiling a plaque.

Later, Tarique stepped down beside the canal and cut soil with a spade to mark the beginning of the work.

He later planted a tree on the bank of the canal.

Khorddo Khal was originally excavated in 1978 under the initiative of former president Ziaur Rahman. After 48 years, the canal is being re-excavated under the initiative of his son, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

After inaugurating the canal work, the Prime Minister went to a nearby stage where thousands of leaders, activists and supporters standing on both sides of the canal welcomed him with loud applause.

The Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate the re-excavation work of the ‘Bishwo Khal’ (canal) near Ghosher Hat in Kumarduli village under Shahmahmudpur Union of Chandpur Sadar upazila.

He is also scheduled to plant trees along the bank of the canal.

Bishwo Khal is a long canal stretching from the Dakatia River through Ghosher Hat up to the border area of Matlab South.

The Prime Minister will then take a break for Zohr prayers and lunch at the Circuit House.

He will address a public rally at Chandpur Government College ground and distribute Family Cards.

Tarique, also the Chairman of ruling BNP, is scheduled to attend an organisational views-exchange meeting with the party’s local leaders and activists at Chandpur Club at 5pm before returning to Dhaka.