The interim government has declared a total of 153 unions and 72 mouzas across Chattogram, Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, and Naogaon districts as water-stressed zones. A gazette notification was issued on October 28, 2025.

And then this information was later shared in a press release by the Ministry of Water Resources on Thursday (October 30).

According to the ministry, in the country’s northwestern hydrological region covering Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, and Naogaon districts and their 25 upazilas have been categorized based on water scarcity levels such as below: 

1. 47 unions as extremely high water-stressed

2. 40 unions as high water-stressed

3. 66 unions as moderately water-stressed

In addition, five mouzas under Patiya Municipality in Chattogram district have been identified as extremely high water-stressed, while three mouzas have been labeled as high water-stressed areas.

The ministry stated that the decision was made under Section 17 of the Bangladesh Water Act, 2023, based on detailed investigations, tests, analyses, and surveys to ensure sustainable water management and protection of aquifers in these regions.

The government has also issued several directives for residents in these areas below:

1. Installation of new tubewells or extraction of groundwater for any purpose other than drinking water is prohibited.

2. Existing tubewells may only be used for drinking water supply.

3. Establishment of groundwater-dependent industries is not permitted.

4. Conversion of natural water bodies such as canals, ponds, and rivers is prohibited, and they must remain open for public use.

5. Leasing of public water bodies and wetlands for exclusive use is discouraged.

6. Obstruction of natural water flow or complete extraction of water from any reservoir is banned.

7. Activities that alter the natural characteristics of land and water are restricted.

8. Discharge of untreated liquid or solid waste into rivers, lakes, ponds, or wetlands is strictly prohibited.

9. Cultivation of water-intensive crops should be discouraged, while water-efficient crops should be gradually promoted.

The ministry further warned that any violation of these directives would be considered a punishable offense under Section 29 of the Bangladesh Water Act, 2023.

The Daily Delta Report