Rangpur, July 30 -- Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu on Thursday said the government will investigate allegations of irregularities in canal excavation projects and take action if any wrongdoing is found.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Zia Canal in Kukrul area of Rangpur city, the minister said authorities have received reports of irregularities in some canal excavation works and those complaints would be thoroughly investigated.

He also said the government is planning to bring the maintenance of trees along both sides of canals under a social agreement scheme. Under the initiative, poor local residents, particularly women, will be entrusted with maintaining one to two kilometres of roadside trees. The...