Nabaganga River erosion threatens Bardia Bazar and nearby homes in Narail

A sudden bout of erosion along Bangladesh’s Nabaganga River has put Bardia Bazar, a traditional marketplace in Narail’s Kalia upazila, at risk. Nearby homes and public facilities also face the threat of being washed away.

The erosion on 29 August swept away 10 homes, trees, tube wells and sections of homestead land within a short period, said BM Barkat Ullah, chairman of Khashial Union Parishad. Families who lost their homes and land are staying with neighbours.

Traders and residents formed a human chain at Bardia Bazar ferry ghat at about 11am to demand immediate protection. Around 400 traders work at the market, while at least 15 families live nearby, residents said. Bardia Khademul Islam Madrasa and the ferry and ghat areas are also considered vulnerable.

Residents called for geo-bags along the exposed stretch and a permanent embankment. Hasan Al Mamun, chairman of Kotakol Union Parishad, also urged urgent action. Abhijit Kumar Saha, executive engineer of the Bangladesh Water Development Board in Narail, said work was already under way in other parts of the river. A permanent embankment project has been prepared and sent to the ministry, he said. If approved, erosion-control work could begin in Bardia and other vulnerable areas.

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The Nabaganga is extremely erosion-prone, and work is under way in different areas along the river to prevent further erosion.