The devastating erosion of the Padma River has once again taken a serious turn in Rajbari district.
After the initial damage of 1 kilometer area during the monsoon season, the city’s flood embankment once again is facing the wrath of the mighty Padma.
From Wednesday evening till Thursday morning, about 150 meters of the city flood embankment have dissolved in the river bed.
Frightened residents are taking shelter on higher ground away from the river bank.
According to locals last year’s sand dredging is the main reason of the current river erosion.
They said on Wednesday evening despite low water levels in Padma, sudden erosion began near the Godar Bazar area of Rajbari.
As a result the entire area, including Rajbari city is under threat.
Mohammad Mazibur, a resident of Gopalbari village under Rajbari Sadar upazila said: “Dredging in the Rajbari section of Padma River is responsible for the flood. Many of the anxious residents are moving away from the affected area.”
Sadar upazila Water Development Board Deputy Assistant Engineer Md Hafizur Rahman said: “Daulatdia of Rajbari zila to Sialdangi of Pangsha upazila share 85 kilometers of river channel in-between. On Wednesday about 100 meter area of the city flood embankment got damaged. We have sent the new embankment design to the ministry. We are hopeful to start the repair work very soon.”
