In the wake of the recent floods in Sylhet, discussions have intensified regarding the role of the much-talked-about Itna-Mithamoin Road in Kishoreganj on social media platforms like Facebook.
This debate comes amidst the second major flood in Sylhet in 2024, following the severe flooding in 2022, which submerged nearly 70% of the division.
The authorities stress that while heavy rainfall is not unusual in Sylhet, the Itna-Mithamoin Road's potential role in redirecting rainwater to the rivers needs thorough examination to prevent further flood risks.
According to Dr Zahir Bin Alam, professor at the Department of Environment and Urban Planning at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (Sust), the 30km road is impeding water flow, potentially contributing to flooding in the region.
However, he emphasized that it cannot solely be blamed for the floods unless detailed hydrological studies are conducted in Kishoreganj and Sunamganj.
Dr Alam highlighted satellite observations indicating significant accumulation downstream, affecting the plains in Sylhet.
He observed that the water flow in the region is slow due to these factors.
Meanwhile, Abdul Karim Kim, general secretary of the Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (Bapa) Sylhet Chapter, expressed concerns over the natural control of water in the Haor areas.
He argued that the road construction from Itna to Mithamoin was done without proper environmental assessments, potentially exacerbating flood situations.
A civil engineer from Sylhet, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that water from Sunamganj and Kishoreganj is flowing into Sylhet through the Meghna River system. The Itna-Mithamoin Road is obstructing this inflow.
The official suggested that cutting the road might facilitate smoother water flow.
Sylhet City Corporation's Chief Engineer Noor Azizur Rahman said efforts are underway in collaboration with the Water Development Board, Roads and Highways Department, and LGED to mitigate flood risks in the region.
He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to address the recurring flood challenges in Sylhet.
The construction of this debated road, stretching 29.73 kilometres, cost a staggering Tk874.08 crore in 2020, aimed at easing connectivity for three upazilas around the Haor region, also making it attractive for tourists.
The road has been scrutinized in discussions about Sylhet's floods in 2022, even prompting discussions in parliament.
A specialized committee, led by water experts like Dr Ainun Nishat, was formed to assess its impact, concluding that while it has not directly caused Sylhet's floods, its construction could exacerbate future issues.
Dr Nishat further elaborated that the road does not directly impede the Haor's natural drainage, but the Kushiara River does flow alongside it, potentially affecting water flow.
Political figures like MP MA Mannan criticized these road constructions in Haor, emphasizing their adverse effects rather than benefits.
He stated: "We have erected numerous structures in Haor. No more roads will be built in Haor; only the construction of the elevated bridges will take place.”