DHORA and Khowai River Waterkeeper organized meeting on “Floods and Water-logging in Khowai River-Basin: Causes and Way Forward”. The meeting was chaired by prominent environmental activist and poet Tahmina Begum Gini, with Tofazzal Sohail, the Khoai River Waterkeeper, moderating the session.

During the meeting, Jalal Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission, highlighted efforts to relocate the Khoai River from the city through voluntary work. Despite these efforts, the flooding issues have persisted. He emphasized the need to collectively work towards freeing the old Khoai River from illegal occupiers. He also mentioned the challenges in managing sand extraction due to the political influence of leaseholders. Ahmed assured that steps would be taken to demarcate the river, erect boundary pillars, and implement beautification measures.

Other notable speakers included environmental activist and former Principal of Brindavan Government College, Professor Ikramul Wadud; DIG Ejaz Ahmad; Deputy Attorney General Faiz Ahmad; and former Principal of Government Women's College, Professor Jahan Ara Khatun. The special guests discussed the importance of restoring the old canal and controlling river flow to prevent flooding. Deputy Attorney General Faiz Ahmad pointed out that, according to a High Court directive, rivers are considered living entities with rights similar to those of humans. He called for coordinated efforts by the court, administration, and the water development board for effective river management and dredging to protect the city from floods. DIG Ejaz Ahmad recommended marking the old boundaries of the Khoai River as per CS records.

Professor Ikramul Wadud advocated for beautifying and renovating the old canal, while Professor Jahan Ara Khatun stressed the critical role of the river Khowai in the life of Habiganj and the urgency of saving it. Additional speakers included journalist Abdul Halim, Syed Ekhlachur Rahman Thokon, advocate Hasbi Saeed Chowdhury, and various others.

The participants expressed concerns over the fear residents experience during floods, as the Khoai River often rises 16 feet above the city level. They stressed the need for dredging or other methods to deepen the riverbed to prevent inundation. Earlier, Tofazzal Sohel of Khowai River Waterkeeper presented a concept paper on "Floods and Inundation of Khoai River: Causes and Actions."