Erosion along the banks of the Meghna River has taken an alarming turn with the onset of the monsoon season, causing grief to many of the locals of Chandpur’s Harina village.
Incessant and heavy downpours over the last few days have raised the water levels of the Meghna, resulting in erosion at the ferry terminal at the biggest river port of the country. The river’s rise has also devoured around 150 homesteads. Some locals have managed to move their houses but many still fear that the river might reach their homes in the near future.
Though the erosion of the riverbank keeps increasing, the government has done nothing yet. Foreign Minister Dipu Moni visited Harina village twice and has made assurances that necessary steps would be taken to resolve the plight of the people.
Kalu Miji, a villager, pointing at a specific spot near the banks, said: “Four brothers used to own 37% of the land there but the river has swallowed it up.”
Another local said: “We have had sleepless nights over the Meghna erosion as it is gradually intensifying.”
According to locals, the river erodes the embankment daily at 10am and 5pm as the upsurge leaves the ferry terminal. This rate of erosion is a threat to the terminal’s infrastructure, which is worth millions.
Speaking on the situation, the sadar upazila executive officer, ShahinurShahin said: “We have already created a list of affected people. The concerned authorities have already been informed and necessary measures will soon be taken.”
Water Development Board Executive engineer, Jibon Krishna Das, said a project has been authorised to prevent the river erosion and protect the 700metre stretch of riverbank occupied by the Harina ferry terminal.
However, many locals protest the delay and say temporary protection should be initiated at vulnerable places with a swift solution to the problem, instead of a long-term project.