Implementation of Teesta Master Plan is the need of the hour: Dr. Nazrul Islam

By Rezaul Karim Jibon 

Published: 17 January 2026 : Bangladesh Environment Movement (BAPA) Central Vice President Architect Dr. Nazrul Islam said, the lives and livelihoods of about 20 million people on the banks of Teesta are intertwined with this river. We want to see not only a message of hope for the development of the people of this township, but also the real reflection of the work. Therefore, the implementation of the Teesta Master Plan has now become the demand of the hour.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at a view-sharing meeting titled 'Testa River in Crisis and Socio-Economic Impact' organized by Bapa Rangpur District Branch at the Rangpur District Chamber Auditorium on Saturday (January 17) morning.

Dr. Nazrul Islam further said, 'The current interim government is working to improve the fate of the people on the banks of the Teesta. The necessary preliminary work, including inspecting the Teesta river and exchanging views with the local people, has already been completed. Various political parties and environmental organizations are also vocal in protecting the Teesta. We hope that the main work of the master plan will begin as soon as possible.'

The meeting, chaired by Advocate Shamima Akhtar Shirin, convener of BAPA Rangpur district, was addressed as special guests by: Dr. Md. Khalequzzaman: Vice-President, Bangladesh Environment Network (BEN); Alamgir Kabir: General Secretary, BAPA Central Committee; Emdadul Hossain: President, Rangpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Faridul Islam Farid: President, Teesta River Protection Committee.

City Press Club President Swapan Chowdhury, General Secretary Humayun Kabir Manik and Rangpur Journalists Union General Secretary Sarkar Mazharul Mannan also spoke. The meeting was moderated by BAPA District Member Secretary Rashidus Sultan Bablu. Before the meeting, BAPA leaders visited various areas of the Teesta River.