Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, announced immediate steps to combat river erosion and protect farmland in flood-affected regions. Speaking as the chief guest at a public hearing on flood and erosion held at the District Commissioner’s office in Noakhali on Monday, Hasan emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting those impacted by the floods.

Efforts are already underway to assist farmers and agricultural workers affected by the recent floods, according to the Adviser. She highlighted the importance of addressing the issues from the people’s perspective and called for collaboration between the government and the public to find sustainable solutions.

During the hearing, Hasan assured the audience that urgent steps would be taken to prevent further erosion and the intrusion of saline water. She pledged to incorporate local suggestions into the plans and announced that the feedback from the public hearing would be thoroughly evaluated for implementation. Additionally, Hasan revealed that an investigation has been ordered into the rapid failure of the Musapur regulator.

The public hearing was attended by top government officials, including the Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, the Director General of the Bangladesh Water Development Board, the Deputy Commissioner of Noakhali, as well as representatives from various professional and local communities.

Earlier in the day, Hasan visited the Musapur regulator and the erosion-hit Jonotar Bazar in Companyganj, where she inspected the damages caused by the floods and assured that remedial measures would be taken swiftly.

The government’s proactive response aims to mitigate the hardships faced by flood-affected communities and ensure the long-term protection of farmland.