RAJSHAHI, NOV 11 V7N- Monday morning at 10:30 am, a human chain took place at Zero Point in Rajshahi, organized to demand changes to the Barind Multipurpose Development Authority’s (BMDA) irrigation policy. The event called for a farmer-friendly policy and for selecting irrigation pump operators based on decisions by farmers' organizations. Local citizens and activists participated in this hour-long protest.

The BMDA introduced an irrigation policy for the drought-prone Barind region in 2008. However, activists argue that influential individuals have monopolized control over Barind irrigation wells, causing water access issues for farmers. This has led to conflicts, sometimes resulting in farmer deaths, well occupation, and unequal water distribution. Protesters demanded that the 2008 policy be revised to better serve farmers’ needs.

They also urged for projects to increase the availability of surface water by re-excavating water bodies, canals, and rivers in the Barind region to support sustainable irrigation practices.

END/RAR/RH