Teesta erosion takes a serious turn in Rajarhat

RANGPUR, Sept 25: Erosion by the river Teesta has taken a serious turn at Chatura area of Rajarhat upazila in Kurigram district, devouring over100 houses in the upazila during last couple of weeks.

Besides, a vast tract of crop land including vegetable fields has been engulfed by the river, sources alleged.

Because of erosion many establishments including educational institution, mosque, madrasa and dwelling houses are now on the verge ruin, local sources said.

A good number of people of the river bank areas are shifting at different places to escape the erosion. Many people of the area are passing days in anxiety, local sources informed.

Locals apprehended massive loss, if the situation continues for next one or two weeks.

"I have lost my house and crop land due to river erosion. Now I have become a pauper," said Helal Mia (50) of Chatura village.

"My family members have taken refuge in temporary shelters, "he added.

Locals alleged that Teesta erosion is continuing in the area and it may devour more areas soon. Many villagers are now leaving homesteads fearing erosion, they added.

Momdel (60), of Chatura Kalirhat Bazar area said Teesta has devoured a vast tract of arable lands and dwelling houses during last couple week. He had one bigha of homestead which was devoured by the river few days before, leaving him a destitute, he lamented.

In this situation the local people urged the government to take adequate steps immediately to prevent river erosion in the area.

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