Banshkhali (Chattogram) Correspondent

Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Asadul Habib Dulu, MP, stated on Wednesday said that with floodwaters starting to recede, the government is shifting its focus toward rehabilitation alongside ongoing relief operations.

He issued a stern warning that any allegations of corruption or nepotism in aid distribution would face immediate punitive action.

"We will tolerate no form of corruption or favoritism," the Minister told journalists on Wednesday afternoon, following a relief distribution drive for flood victims at the Khankhanabad Union under Banshkhali Upazila in Chattogram. "There is no room for politics when it comes to helping flood-affected people. Whoever is affected must receive relief. If we receive any complaints to the contrary, prompt action will be taken."

Earlier, after inspecting a local canal, the Minister recalled the historical legacy of water management initiatives in the country. "It was our commitment that upon assuming state responsibilities, we would re-excavate these canals. The canal-digging revolution initiated by the late President Ziaur Rahman successfully transformed Bangladesh from a food-deficient nation into a food-surplus country that exported grain abroad," he remarked.

Observing the current impact of the dredging, he noted, "I have seen firsthand that the excavation of this canal has significantly eased water drainage. Our goal is twofold: ensuring smooth drainage during the monsoon and retaining water during the dry season. We will also utilize the canal banks effectively."

The Minister announced that his ministry would provide financial allocations to complete the remaining excavation work during the upcoming dry season, adding that directives have been issued to further improve the canal.

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Jahidul Islam Miah and Chattogram South District BNP Joint Convenor Mishkatul Islam Chowdhury Pappu, among others, were present during the visit.