The re-excavation of a seven-kilometre canal from Kalitala Bridge to Hapania Bazar in Barshail union of Sadar upazila was inaugurated on Saturday at a cost of Tk 98.74 lakh (9.874 million).

Member of Parliament for Naogaon Sadar constituency Zahidul Islam Dholu formally opened the work by unveiling a plaque and digging soil with a spade at the site.

Later, he addressed a views-exchange meeting held at Tentulia College ground as the chief guest.

List of canal encroachers being prepared: State Minister

In his speech, the lawmaker said former President Ziaur Rahman had famously initiated canal excavation programmes across the country through voluntary efforts to boost agricultural production.

After a long time, President Zia's worthy successor Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has again taken up such initiatives nationwide, he said.

He added that the canal in Naogaon is being re-excavated after nearly 20 years, which will benefit thousands of farmers in Barshail, Hapania and Chakgouri unions by enabling easier and low-cost irrigation for crop production, including vegetables and paddy.

Barshail Union BNP President Sanowar Hossain Pintu presided over the programme.

Among others, BNP leaders including Khairur Alam Golden, Bayezid Hossain Palash, Aminul Haque Belal, Dewan Mostaq Ahmed Raza, Al Kafi Tuhin, Didarul Haque Ratan, Masud Haidar Tipu and Ruhul Amin Mukta were present.

The project is being implemented by the National Development Programme (NDP) with support from Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF).