Tajul Islam Rakib, Louhjang (Munshiganj)
Fear of erosion is once again prevailing in the villages along the banks of the Padma River in Louhajang Upazila of Munshiganj. However, in reality, no major erosion has occurred so far. People living on the banks of the river are constantly in fear that the devastating Padma will strike again on the map of Lohajang. Every year, the map of the Iron Age is getting smaller and smaller due to erosion in some places. Md. Alamgir Sheikh, a resident of Sundisar village in Bejgaon union, said that people of several unions including Medinimandal Kanaksar, Louhajang-Teutia, Bejgaon Gaondia, and Khidirpara in the upazila bordering the Padma River are worried every monsoon season. Although there is a risk of erosion as the water level rises, there have been no reports of erosion anywhere at present. Md. Sajib Bepari, a resident of Louhajang-Teutia Union, said that fear of erosion is prevailing in public life due to the strong current in the areas along the banks of the turbulent Padma River. The people of Louhajang-Tongibari Upazila are waiting for the implementation of a permanent embankment soon. The Water Development Board (Pawbo) authorities said that the flow of the Padma is comparatively low this time. The locations where geobags were already placed are now also in effect. As a result, it is possible to prevent erosion even in strong river currents. However, due to the unstable nature of the Padma River, there is a fear that erosion could start at any time. Louhajang Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Nesar Uddin said, “We are monitoring the situation of the Padma River every day.” “There have been no reports of new landslides anywhere. However, people are being kept aware.” Local representatives said, “Every time people lose their homes due to landslides, they become disoriented.” “Although there is no erosion for now, there is panic. People on the banks of the river are spending their days and nights in fear.” Experts believe that the construction of permanent dams and regular maintenance are essential to prevent erosion of the Padma. Although a temporary solution can be found by placing geobags, it is not possible to control the river in this way in the long term. Fear of Padma river erosion still prevails in every household in Louhjang. Although there is no current erosion, people are worried about the future due to the unstable nature of the Padma.