Dhaka, May 16 -- Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has inaugurated the re-excavation of the Khordda Canal in Chandpur's Shahrasti Upazila, reviving a waterway first dug nearly half a century ago under former president Ziaur Rahman.

On Saturday, he arrived by road from Dhaka at 3pm at Waruk Bazar in Tamta South Union, where he unveiled a plaque at the excavation site, formally launching the project.

After the launch, he stepped down to the canal bank and dug soil with a spade, later planting trees along the embankment.

Scores of activists and supporters gathered on both sides of the canal, welcoming him with loud applause as he stood on a nearby stage.

During the event, Social Welfare Minister AZM Zahid Hossain, Education Minister Anam Ehs...