Dhaka, Feb 19 (V7N) — The government has adopted an ambitious plan to plant 50 million saplings annually across the country’s haor, char, hilly and mangrove forest areas as part of its environmental protection and climate resilience strategy.

The decision was taken at an inter-ministerial meeting on tree plantation and canal excavation programs chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat on Thursday.

Plantation Program to Start in May

Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintu said the nationwide plantation drive will begin in May this year, with saplings to be collected from various parts of the country to ensure diversity and sustainability.

Canal Excavation Plan

Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie said four ministries — water resources, local government, disaster management and agriculture — will jointly determine the timeline and scope of canal excavation.

He added that the government aims to complete most of the excavation work within the 180-day action plan, underscoring the administration’s focus on improving water management and climate adaptation.

Officials say the combined initiatives are expected to enhance ecological balance, reduce waterlogging and strengthen protection against natural disasters.

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