Chowhali Correspondent:

At least 45-metre stretch of the riverbank protection embankment of the Jamuna river at Jotpara area in Chowhali upazila of Sirajganj district collapsed on Monday in a span of time from morning to noon.

Due to the collapse of the riverbank protection embankment, panic has spread among the local dwellers as they fear that the erosion may take serious turn, if necessary measures are not taken right now.

Locals said, if the erosion takes more serious turn due to lack of protective measures, water of the Jamuna river may enter into the locality inundating low-laying areas and croplands.

Locals said, sudden collapse was noticed on the left bank of the Jamuna river at the mentioned place and about 45-metre stretch of the embankment went into the riverbed in short time that creates panic. But, even after informing, no one of the Water Development Board (WDB) in Sirajganj and Tangail took the necessary steps to protect the locality from the erosion causing concern among the local residents.

Many people, who live along the embankment, have started shifting their homesteads to safer places in fear of collapse and damage.

On information, Md. Mostafizur Rahman, UNO of Chowhali visited the spot at noon and assured the local people to take immediate steps to protect the embankment.

Replying to a query, he said, the matter has already been informed to the WDB officials for necessary action. I hope that, they will take protective measures after visiting the spot shortly.

Mokhlesur Rahman, Executive Engineer of WDB in Sirajganj told the journalists that, “About 40 to 45 metres stretch of the embankment collapsed into the river due to strong current. Renovation works with dumping sand sacks will be started Tuesday morning.”