The Mohishkhola–Madhyanagar road in Madhyanagar upazila ofSunamganj district has collapsed under the impact of floodwaters, leaving thousands of residents in extreme distress. The road, the only link between Mohishkhola and the upazila headquarters, was originally brick-paved but has been steadily deteriorating due to recurrent flooding in recent years.
Large stretches of the road, flanked by haor wetlands on both sides, have been washed away by strong waves. Bricks now lie scattered, while soil around bridges and culverts has eroded. Every day, thousands are forced to travel this dangerous route, risking their lives.
The road serves over one lakh residents of Banshikunda North, Banshikunda South, and Chamardani unions, along with many from neighboring Tahirpur upazila. Spanning about 20 kilometers, it is regarded as the most vital communication link of the upazila. Yet years of neglect and repeated flooding have left it in ruins. Long-distance travelers now rely on motorcycles to pass through, resulting in frequent accidents.
According to the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), 18 kilometers of the road were brick-paved under the 2008–09 fiscal year. However, instead of concrete blocks, sand-filled geo-bags were used to prevent erosion. These collapsed within a few years, causing severe damage. Once 24 feet wide, the road has now narrowed to just 5 feet in some places and 3 feet in others. Several sections have disappeared into the haor altogether.
Local resident Dasharath Chandra Adhikari of Laxmipur village said, “This is the most important road in the upazila, yet it is no longer fit for travel. From the border area of Mohishkhola, reaching Madhyanagar for essential services has become a nightmare. Some reconstruction is underway, but progress is slow. Immediate repairs are needed to keep the road usable.” Chamardani Union Parishad Chairman Alamgir Khasru echoed the frustration: “Reconstruction has started in parts of the road, but the pace is very slow. Temporary repairs to the most dangerous sections could at least ease the suffering of thousands of people in four unions.” Shahab Uddin, Acting Engineer of Madhyanagar LGED, said, “Three reconstruction packages have been taken up for this crucial road. Work has already begun on 12 kilometers under two packages, and full-scale reconstruction is expected to start in the next fiscal year. However, due to lack of funds, temporary repair work is not possible at this time.”