Nilphamari, Feb 07 (V7N)- BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that the Teesta Barrage Master Plan will be implemented as soon as possible if the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) comes to power.

He made the remarks while addressing an election rally in Nilphamari on Saturday.

Tarique Rahman said that the people will cast their votes on February 12, adding that voting alone is not enough. “We must also rebuild the country. We have nowhere else to go—Bangladesh is our first and last address,” he said.

Referring to regional development, he noted that an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) already exists in the area and said BNP plans to expand it to create more employment opportunities. He also announced plans to establish a training center to develop skilled workers among local youth.

Speaking about women’s empowerment, Tarique Rahman said that mothers and sisters will be made self-reliant if BNP forms the government. He reiterated the party’s plan to introduce family cards for every woman, through which government assistance would be provided.

Highlighting agriculture, he said Nilphamari is an agriculture-dependent region. “If farmers are prosperous, the country will prosper,” he said, adding that agricultural cards would be issued to farmers to ensure easier access to agricultural inputs and support.

Regarding religious leaders, Tarique Rahman said that many imams, khatibs, and leaders of other religious communities live in hardship. He said BNP plans to introduce honorariums for them if elected.

Emphasizing the importance of the Teesta Master Plan, he said it is a long-standing and vital demand of the people of the region. “If BNP comes to power on the 12th, implementing the Teesta Master Plan will be one of our top priorities, so that the region becomes green and fertile,” he said.

He also mentioned public demands for a medical college in Nilphamari, saying the project would be implemented in phases. Referring to Syedpur–Kishoreganj as an industrial zone, he said BNP plans to establish new industries there, including a railway factory.

Tarique Rahman further alleged that voters in the area are being intimidated to prevent them from casting their votes. He warned that legal action would be taken against anyone involved in voter intimidation.

END/SMA/AJ