Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday inaugurated the re-excavation of the Patli Canal in Cox’s Bazar as part of a series of development and environmental initiatives in the district.

The prime minister launched the project at around 10:45am.

Earlier, a US-Bangla Airlines flight carrying him landed at Cox’s Bazar Airport at 10am.

Following the inauguration, Tarique Rahman was scheduled to launch a nationwide programme to plant 250 million trees by planting a sapling in the protected Masumghat forest.

He was also expected to visit the grave of Wasim, a martyr of the July mass uprising in Cox’s Bazar, and meet members of his family.

During his visit, the prime minister will take part in foundation stone-laying and inauguration ceremonies for infrastructure projects under Pekua Municipality and the newly formed Matamuhuri Upazila.

Later in the afternoon, he is scheduled to address a public rally as the chief guest at Chakaria Municipal Bus Terminal Ground.

The prime minister will also visit Cox’s Bazar sea beach and the Marine Drive area before attending an interactive meeting with representatives from different professions and social groups.