JHALAKATHI, Mar 8, (V7N) – The construction of embankments and canal re‑excavation works under the Angaria Drainage Sub‑Project of the Climate and Disaster Resilient Small‑Scale Water Resources Management Project was inaugurated in Rajapur upazila on Sunday morning.

Local MP for Jhalokati‑1 constituency Rafiqul Islam Jamal formally launched the project as chief guest at Angaria. The scheme includes building approximately 6 kilometers of embankments and re‑excavating 23 kilometers of canals. Speaking at the ceremony, Jamal said the project would help reduce waterlogging, boost agricultural production and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. He added that the government is committed to improving rural livelihoods through sustainable water management and infrastructure development. Local representatives, dignitaries and residents attended the event. The project is being implemented by the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED).

Later in the day, International Women’s Day was celebrated in Kathalia upazila of Jhalakathi with the theme “Today’s steps, tomorrow’s justice: protect the rights of women and girls.” A discussion meeting was held at the Upazila Parishad Auditorium at 3:30 pm, chaired by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Maqbul Hossain.

Addressing the meeting as chief guest, MP Rafiqul Islam Jamal emphasized the importance of ensuring women’s participation in all spheres of life. He said advancing women requires cooperation from both government and society, not neglect. Speakers from various women’s organizations, journalists, teachers, freedom fighters and local dignitaries echoed the call for greater inclusion and empowerment.

Participants stressed that women’s advancement should not be confined to symbolic observances but must be integrated into everyday practice. They highlighted the need for collective efforts to secure women’s rights and dignity, noting that empowering women is essential for building a just and prosperous society.

END/AIJ/RH