Bangladesh and China reaffirm commitment to launch the Teesta Mega-Project this year, offering hope to millions in northern Bangladesh affected by erosion, floods and livelihood insecurity.
The long-awaited Teesta Mega-Project in northern Bangladesh is set to move forward, a minister-ranked adviser of the interim government confirmed on Monday, urging locals not to be discouraged by recent delays.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser on Forests, Environment, Climate Change and Water Resources, said the project has completed Bangladesh’s preparatory phase and is now under careful verification by Chinese authorities. “Although work did not begin in January as initially planned, the verification process is thorough to ensure there are no mistakes, as the project directly affects people’s lives,” she said during an inspection of erosion-prone areas along the Teesta River in Kaunia, Rangpur.
“Both Bangladesh and China are committed to starting physical work on the project this year, but it will not take place during the tenure of the interim government,” Rizwana Hasan said. “Local communities should remain hopeful and avoid spreading frustration.”
The inspection was joined by Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen, who reaffirmed China’s commitment to the project. “This is a sustainable initiative that will bring relief to communities affected in the region,” he said.
The Teesta Mega-Project, planned for decades, aims to protect farmland, reduce riverbank erosion and improve livelihoods for nearly 20 million people across the Teesta basin. Farmers, fishers and local residents have long campaigned for the project’s implementation through protests, human chains and advocacy programs.
Officials said the project will deliver long-term economic benefits to northern Bangladesh, particularly in agriculture and fisheries, while reducing flood and erosion risks.
During the visit, Rizwana Hasan and the delegation held meetings with district administration officials, police authorities and senior officers of the Bangladesh Water Development Board to discuss erosion control and project strategies.
