Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman on Saturday called on citizens to unite in a renewed effort to rebuild the country, saying his administration is committed to practical action rather than rhetoric to improve people’s lives.

Speaking at a public rally in Shahrasti upazila of Chandpur after inaugurating the re excavation of the historic Khorddo Khal canal, the Prime Minister urged the nation to adopt state reconstruction as a shared mission.

He said the government’s focus is on realistic and effective plans that deliver tangible benefits.

“Our objective is not limited to dreams,” he told the gathering. “We are determined to design and implement programmes that advance the country and transform the lives of our people.”

Highlighting the canal restoration initiative, Tarique Rahman noted that the project was first launched 48 years ago by his late father, former president Ziaur Rahman.

He said reviving the canal would directly support farmers by improving water supply for irrigation.

“If the canal remains silted, our farmers will suffer from lack of water. Once it is re excavated, they will benefit,” he said, adding that collective effort is essential for national progress. Citing a verse from the Holy Quran, he remarked that divine support comes to those who take initiative themselves.

The PM said Bangladesh can strengthen its standing globally if its population of 20 crore works together in unity. “If 40 crore hands join forces, we can build a respected nation in the world,” he said.

He also pledged that the government would gradually implement the commitments made ahead of the election, stating that the BNP has a track record of honouring its promises when in office.

“The people of Bangladesh are the source of our strength. As long as they stand with us, our work for the country will continue,” he said.

After travelling by road from Dhaka via Cumilla, the Prime Minister arrived at the Khorddo Khal site at Waruk Bazar in Tamta South Union at around 2:40 pm.

He formally launched the project by unveiling a plaque, cut soil with a spade on the canal bank and planted a tree sapling.

Later in the afternoon, at approximately 4:30 pm, he inaugurated the re excavation of Bishwo Khal near Ghosher Hat in Shahmahmudpur Union of Chandpur Sadar upazila and planted another sapling.

Bishwo Khal extends from the Dakatiya River through Ghosher Hat to the Matlab South boundary area.

Education Minister Anam Ehsanul Haque Milon, Disaster Management Minister Asadul Habib Dulu and local leaders attended the events, where thousands of party leaders, activists and residents gathered along the canal banks to welcome the Prime Minister.