The minister said these things in a speech at the meeting titled 'Binna Grass Policy for Bangladesh' at Water Bhaban in Panthapath in the capital today. State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad, MP, was present at the time.

The minister further said the roots of Binna grass penetrate deep into the soil and firmly hold the soil. As a result, it helps reduce soil erosion caused by rainwater, waves and currents. In particular, the use of this grass on river and canal banks, embankments, hilly slopes and haor areas can protect environmental balance as well as increase the durability of infrastructure. He called for increasing the use of Binna grass to protect the soil of riverbanks and embankments in Bangladesh.

The minister also said the Ministry of Water Resources is prioritizing sustainable and environment-friendly initiatives for the conservation of the country's rivers, canals, embankments and reservoirs.

State Minister Azad said the risks of floods, river erosion, heavy rainfall and land erosion are increasing in the country due to climate change. To tackle these natural disasters, focus must be placed on nature-based and environment-friendly solutions instead of relying only on concrete infrastructure. He said Binna grass can play an effective role in this regard.

At the meeting, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology Professor Dr. Mohammad Shariful Islam gave a PowerPoint presentation on the benefits and potential of Binna grass. Senior officials of the ministry and attached departments and agencies were present at that time.