The Teesta Mega Plan, a long-delayed project, has resurfaced as a key focal point in the upcoming elections for voters in 10 constituencies along the Teesta river basin spanning Lalmonirhat, Kurigram, Rangpur, Gaibandha, and Nilphamari districts.
Candidates from various political parties competing in Lalmonirhat, Kurigram, Rangpur, Gaibandha, and Nilphamari have committed to executing the plan as outlined in their election agendas.
Particularly, candidates from BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have prioritized the Teesta Mega Plan, intensifying their campaign efforts in the river-adjacent char areas to appeal to voters residing along the Teesta riverbank.
During election gatherings in Rangpur and Nilphamari, BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman assured, “If BNP assumes power, we will execute the Teesta Mega Plan.”
Similarly, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman echoed this sentiment at rallies held in Rangpur, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, and Nilphamari, stating, “Upon Jamaat’s victory, work on the Teesta Mega Plan will commence promptly.”
Despite consistent assurances over the years, many residents along the river remain skeptical. The Teesta Mega Plan has become a recurring promise during elections that often fades into obscurity post-election.
Mohir Uddin, a 70-year-old farmer from Char Gokunda in Lalmonirhat Sadar, expressed disillusionment, stating that politicians and even the interim government have failed to deliver on their promises regarding the Teesta Mega Plan.
Monwara Begum, a 58-year-old agricultural laborer from Char Gobordhan in Aditmari upazila, shared a similar sentiment, highlighting the decades-long struggle with Teesta-induced erosion and the lack of tangible action to address the issue.
Jamaat candidate Firoz Hayder Lavlu emphasized his party’s unwavering commitment to implementing the plan, underscoring it as a top priority.
NCP candidate Akhtar Hossen, hailing from Rangpur-4, emphasized his personal connection to the Teesta shoal and pledged swift action on the Teesta Mega Plan if an 11-party alliance government assumes power.
BNP candidate Asadul Habib Dulu from Lalmonirhat-3 reiterated the party’s stance, promising to fulfill the Teesta Mega Plan if elected based on the people’s mandate and the party’s electoral manifesto.
