Severe riverbank erosion has emerged in Kazipur, Sirajganj, as water levels in the Jamuna River rise following upstream hill runoff and heavy rainfall. Published on August 11, the report says erosion has become particularly intense in the Chargiris area, placing Chargiris Government Primary School, homes, trees and other structures at risk. Low-lying areas in Kazipur, সদর, Belkuchi, Shahjadpur and Chauhali upazilas are also being inundated.

Chargiris resident Abdur Razzaq said erosion had eased for several days but intensified over the past two days. Roads, cropland and trees are being washed into the river, while homes are collapsing so quickly that residents have no time to move them, he said. He alleged that no measures are being taken to stop the erosion. Water levels have also risen in Sirajganj’s Gumani, Gohala, Bara Pangasi, Ichamati, Fuljor, Bangali, Baral and Hurasagar rivers.

Water Development Board Sub-Divisional Engineer Zakir Hossain said the Jamuna has risen for seven consecutive days. In the past 24 hours, water rose six centimetres at the Sirajganj town protection embankment hard point and three centimetres at Meghai Ghat, remaining 60 centimetres and 106 centimetres below danger levels respectively. Executive Engineer Mokhlesur Rahman said water may continue rising for three to four days, but flooding or crossing danger levels is not expected.