Reviving canals, restoring life

This year the World Water Day was observed recently with the theme of "Where Water Flows, Equality Grows." The key objectives of the theme include accelerating action on Sustainable Development Goal 6 (water/sanitation for all), ensuring that women have equal voice and leadership in water management, and addressing the disproportionate impact of the water crisis on women. This year's theme beautifully resonates with the recent initiative of the Government of Bangladesh to re-excavate canals and revive natural water channels across the country. Though in Bangladesh women and girls generally do not spend long hours collecting water like in some water-scarce regions of the world, the absence of proper water flow still creates significant challenges for the country. When canals and natural waterways are blocked or dried up, it disrupts irrigation and drainage systems, which directly affects agricultural production.
Bangladesh is closely connected with this theme because water plays a vital role in the country's agriculture, livelihood, and climate resilience. As a riverine country situated in the basin of the Ganges River, Brahmaputra River and Meghna River systems, which shape the country's water system and agriculture, Bangladesh is blessed with vast water resources and depends heavily on water for food production and rural development. Yet the country also faces significant water challenges. Nearly 80 per cent of water is used in agriculture, which supports national food security and rural livelihoods. At the same time, about 69 per cent of irrigation water comes from groundwater, creating increasing pressure on underground aquifers. Water inequality often affects the most vulnerable groups. In rural areas, women frequently carry the responsibility of collecting and managing household water, which limits their time for education and income-generating activities. Therefore, ensuring equitable water access can directly contribute to gender equality and social development.
Md. RefatulHossain
An Agriculturist
refatdae87@gmail.com