A Correspondent Bogura:

Jamuna riverbank erosion has taken a serious turn in many places in Sonatola upazila of Bogura district after recession of floodwater from the affected areas triggering a new concern among the villagers.

Considering the severity of the condition, the local Water Development Board (WDB) have been trying to resist further erosion by installing geo bags.

During a recent visit to Mirzapur, Purba Sujaitpur, Radhakantpur, Amtali, Musharpara, Aucharpara, Mohabbaterpara, Jantiarpara, Sarlia, Purba Tekani, Chukainagar area of Sonatola upazila, the correspondent saw that large portion of those villages have disappeared into the river. More than 300 people of Aucharpara and its surrounding areas have shifted their homes along with many business establishments.

Locals said the siltation of River Jamuna increased due to a long-term lack of excavation. As a result, hundreds of acres of arable land, trees, and houses are disappearing into the river every year during and after floods.

The Water Development Board does not take any action during the dry season to prevent river erosion, but in the monsoon season, WDB tries to prevent erosion by piling geo bags and bamboo, they alleged.

The villagers sought urgent government intervention and a permanent solution to the crisis.

Deputy Assistant Engineer of the Water Development Board Hasanuzzaman, said, “We have thrown some geo bags into the river in Mirzapur for immediate needs.”  “I hope that this will prevent erosion,” he added.

Sonatola Upazila Nirbahi Officer Srikrity Pramanik said the local administration is working with the Water Development Board to prevent further erosion.