Erosion, floods leave 20,000 stranded in Laxmipur

Erosion and floods caused by the Meghna River have left more than 20,000 locals stranded in Laxmipur. 

Ongoing erosion, which began hitting the Kalkini union under Kamalnagar upazila of the district aggressively last Monday, has already destroyed around 19 homes, 15 shops, three mosques and several bridges.

Locals are seriously concerned about the ongoing flooding caused by torrential rain for the past couple of days, which has increased the water level of the river, and left them stranded in their homes.

“In front of my very eyes, Meghna swallowed my home, my one and half acres of land and other belongings,” local resident Altaf said with teary eyes.

Another local, Md Imam Uddin of Hajirhat village lost his home and some paddy field due to the sudden erosion.

Speaking to The Business Standard, Executive Engineer of Water Development Board in Laxmipur Mohammad Musa said he was aware of the situation and would take necessary measures after visiting the area as soon as possible. 

“We need to urgently build strong embankment in the area to prevent further destruction caused by erosion,” he added.

Locals revealed that monsoon in the area has been deteriorating every year and urged the government to take necessary steps for mitigating the flood and erosion in the region.