Thousands of acres of farmland in Dhamrai, Dhaka, have been submerged due to severe waterlogging caused by the absence of proper drainage systems. Local farmers and representatives allege that unplanned industrial expansion and landfilling by factory owners have blocked natural water flow, leaving mustard and paddy fields underwater across three villages. The affected areas include parts of Somvag Union, where hundreds of farmers are unable to cultivate crops.
According to local accounts, the problem worsened as industrial establishments and roads expanded along both sides of the Dhaka–Aricha Highway, filling and occupying canals such as the historic Gazikhali canal. Farmers report that around 5,000 acres of land remain flooded, drastically reducing agricultural output. Union Parishad member Jahangir Alam and chairman candidate Abul Hossain both emphasized the urgent need for drainage restoration to revive crop production.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Arifur Rahman confirmed that unplanned industrialization and canal encroachment caused the waterlogging. Upazila Executive Officer Al-Mamun stated that a major project is required to re-excavate the canal and pledged to coordinate with highway officials to prevent further agricultural losses.